Eastern Conference final preview: Rangers vs. Lightning

No. 1 New York Rangers

vs. No. 2 Tampa Bay Lightning

How they got here: Tampa Bay was forced to a Game 7 by the Detroit Red Wings and then ousted the Montreal Canadiens in six games after originally taking a 3-0 series lead. The Rangers took care of the Pittsburgh Penguins in five games and rallied from a 3-1 deficit to defeat the Washington Capitals.

Goaltending: Rangers' Henrik Lundqvist (8-4, 1.60 goals-against average, .944 save percentage) vs. Lightning's Ben Bishop (8-5, 1.81, .931). Bishop stepped up for the Lightning when they needed him. However, Lundqvist has been among the biggest difference-makers in the postseason. In 12 starts, he has given up two or fewer goals 10 times.

Season series: 3-0 Lightning.

Key matchup: Rangers Ds Dan Girardi and Ryan McDonagh vs. Lightning C Tyler Johnson. Johnson is elusive and slippery. He seems to disappear and then reappear in prime scoring areas.

Injuries: Tampa Bay, RW Ryan Callahan is recovering from an appendectomy and is expected to be ready sooner rather than later. New York, D Dan Boyle left Game 7 against Washington and his status but was at practice Friday. F Mats Zuccarello (head) is out.

Why the Rangers should win: 1. They were in the Stanley Cup Final 11 months ago. They understand how to climb this championship mountain. 2. The Rangers are playing the type of gritty, one-goal hockey needed to be a champion. 3. The Lightning have been inconsistent, and the Rangers have the speed and skill to deal with the NHL's top-scoring team. Plus, their defense is combative and mobile.

Why the Lightning could win: 1. This team is a threat to score five goals in a game. If an opponent doesn't consistently maintain a high level of defensive play, it will pay a price. 2. The Lightning passed big tests against the Red Wings and Canadiens. They have been learning as they have marched along. 3. The Lightning got their special teams rolling against Montreal. They killed 15 of 16 power-play chances, and their power play is clicking at 31%

Prediction: Lundqvist is 14-3 when facing elimination. and it just feels like he won't be denied another trip to the Stanley Cup Final. Take the Rangers to win in six games.

PHOTOS: Top unrestricted free agents