Lightning clinch playoff spot following Canadiens' loss
Scott Audette / National Hockey League / Getty
The Tampa Bay Lightning are the first team to clinch a playoff spot this season after the Montreal Canadiens lost to the Anaheim Ducks on Friday.
Lock it in. The @TBLightning are the first to clinch a berth in the 2019 #StanleyCup Playoffs, their fifth postseason appearance in the past six seasons. #NHLStats pic.twitter.com/SV4BZxHu8g
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) March 9, 2019
By punching their postseason ticket with just 68 games played, the Lightning tied the 2008-09 San Jose Sharks as the second-fastest team to clinch a playoff spot in the salary cap era. The 2009-10 Washington Capitals accomplished the feat in 67 contests.
The Bolts have been atop the NHL's standings virtually all season, and currently hold a 15-point lead in the Presidents' Trophy race.