27 Ryan McDonagh D

Lightning's Ryan McDonagh: Makes up for defensive struggles

The American defenseman missed the scoresheet for the fifth consecutive game, but he was terrific defensively, highlighted by a heads-up play that saw McDonagh bat down an Evgeny Kuznetsov shot on the penalty kill. Tampa still has work to do as it's down 2-1 in the series, though it was nice to see McDonagh -- who's averaging 22:21 in the playoffs -- bounce back from a terrible Game 2 performance in which he posted a minus-3 rating at home.

Lightning's Ryan McDonagh: Closes first round with four points

Although Tampa Bay provides a different playoff atmosphere than Broadway, McDonagh has wasted no time making his impact felt for his new club in the postseason notching four points in the opening series, although he's still searching for his first playoff goal in blue. The 28-year-old has been logging heavy minutes on the second unit averaging 22:52 of ice time per game along with the second most five-on-five minutes on the team just behind Victor Hedman, and figures to see similar usage throughout Tampa Bay's cup run. McDonagh's been strong on the defensive end per usual as well, going plus-two over the five games while also supplying five hits and seven blocked shots.

Lightning's Ryan McDonagh: Three assists in two playoff wins

He now has three helpers in two postseason games in a Tampa uniform. McDonagh is a defensive pillar in bright blue and hopes to finally lift that large silver chalice come June.

Lightning's Ryan McDonagh: Little production despite high ice time

McDonagh is settling into Tampa, but it has been an adjustment. He recorded the fourth-highest ice time (18:56) among Lightning defenders Sunday.

Lightning's Ryan McDonagh: Solid debut with Bolts

He was paired with old Rangers friend Dan Girardi. McDonagh was solid overall and should start to make an impact on both ends of the ice very soon. Activate him now.