The set-up: The 24-24-6 Tampa Lightning head to Minnesota looking for the team's first three-game winning streak since mid November, after back-to-back wins over the Ducks (a 3-2 shootout win) and a 5-0 shutout of the Kings. However, a third straight win won't come easily against the 35-12-6 Wild, whose 76 points lead all Western Conference teams, plus they own a 17-6-1 home ice record.

Tampa Bay: The Lightning are 7th (of eight teams) in the top-heavy Metropolitan Division and while the odds are long that they can earn a wild card berth, they remain in striking distance for those who see recent signs of hope. One of those 'hopers' is Lightning head coach Jon Cooper. I'm looking back from the start of the western swing, and the guys have been engaged," he said. "We've had some hiccups along the way and a little adversity has hit in a couple games. ... But they're battling, and you can see that and they've been rewarded the last two games, which makes you feel good, and feel good for them."

Minnesota: A year ago at this time, the Wild were locked in a month-long slump that ultimately cost former head coach Mike Yeo his job. What a difference a year makes, as the Wild have a firm grip on the top of the standings in both the Central Division and the Western Conference, overall. As noted above, Minnesota is 17-6-1 at home, outscoring opponents 3.34-to-2.08 GPG.

The pick: Minnesota goalie Devan Dubnyk (29-9-3, 1.99 GAA & .933 save percentage) is expected in net after resting Wednesday and allowed just two goals on 61 shots in two games against Tampa Bay last season.Tampa Bay goalie Ben Bishop has been in net for Tampa Bay's last two games, stopping 42 of 44 shots. He's expected to be in net again tonight and with good reason, as he owns a .934 save percentage in five games against the Wild. The Under is a 10* play.