Nikita Kucherov's value to the Tampa Bay Lightning has shown up during their best run in 12 years, while the Florida Panthers' last five games have further illustrated Aaron Ekblad's importance.
The rising Lightning can match a franchise record with an eighth consecutive win in Saturday night's showdown with a Panthers team bolstered by Ekblad's return.
Tampa Bay (26-17-4) has closed within three points of the Panthers' lead atop the Atlantic Division by recording its longest winning streak since an eight-game run from Feb. 23-Mar. 6, 2004, the year of the club's lone Stanley Cup championship.