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Players Getting Used To The Work

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 15, 2007

BRANDON - One of the intriguing story lines each year at Lightning training camp is seeing how players handle the first two days of conditioning drills.

This year, there were no disappointments in Coach John Tortorella's eyes.

'After two days, our camp is in very good shape, and that's what these two days are all about finding out,' Tortorella said.

Those who have been through the camp know what to expect and how to prepare, but the new players can only go off what they have been told. They show up for camp wondering and hoping they did enough to get through the first two days of conditioning drills.

'From what all the guys told me and what strength coach Eric Lawson told me, it was going to be tough and intense, and it definitely was that,' said C Chris Gratton, who was acquired from the Florida Panthers in June.

'And what makes it tough is you try to do some of the drills informally and it goes well and you think you're ready. But it's nothing like when you get into the competition. And I wasn't aware they were going to spread guys out and have them chasing each other, and that threw me off a little bit.'

D Shane O'Brien, in his first full season with the Lightning, said the first two days were everything he was told to expect - and more.

'I couldn't tell you what day was more difficult, to tell you the truth,' he said. 'Maybe Day 1 is a little bit tougher, but the second day you haven't recovered so ... it was hard, but I felt good throughout it. I'm glad I put the work in during the summer, and as long as you put the work in during the summer you should be able to get through it.'

LUKOWICH SKATES: D Brad Lukowich took part in Friday's conditioning lap drills despite leaving the ice Thursday and not taking part in the three-mile run that night, instead riding a stationary bike.

Lukowich said he hit a rut in the ice during Thursday's drills and tweaked a ligament in his right ankle. After testing it Friday morning, he said it felt a lot better.

'It's still a little sore, but it's fine,' Lukowich said. 'I wasn't real happy about my times, but that's OK.'

FOR THE FANS: Before each of the three preseason home games, Lightning players will walk across a red carpet on the plaza as they arrive at the arena. Players will start to arrive at about 4:30 p.m.

Additionally, all Lightning players not participating in the game that night will be available at various times in the arena for autographs, pictures, meet and greets and interviews.

NUTS AND BOLTS: Tortorella said he plans to carry 21 or 22 players into the regular season. ... The goaltenders are expected to rotate between the two teams during the four days of scrimmages, allowing for a chance at equal playing time. ... Norfolk coaches Steve Stirling and Darren Rumble did not come to camp, instead going right to Virginia for the start of the Admirals' training camp, which begins Monday. ...

Erik Erlendsson

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