2015 Stanley Cup Final: Does Scoring First Goal Matter?
By John Dodge
CHICAGO (CBS) -- How important is a "fast start" in the Stanley Cup Final?
Statistically, it is more important for the Tampa Bay Lightning than the Chicago Blackhawks.
Over its 20 playoff games in 2015, Tampa has never lost when it scores first.
Over its 17 games, Chicago has won 90 percent of the time when it strikes early.
Both teams have a perfect winning record when they hold the lead after the first period--a statistic that is almost certain to change, unless the teams enter the first intermission tied each game.
More importantly, Chicago is the better comeback team, statistically.
When the Blackhawks were trailing first, they managed to come back and win about 43 percent of the time.
Tampa's rally ability is much less.
The Lightning came back when trailing first just 27 percent of the time.
The teams face off on Wednesday night in Game 1 in Tampa at 7 p.m.