Lightning to host Game 7 watch party Friday . . . did I mention there is free food?

Posted May 13, 2010 by Erik Erlendsson

Updated May 13, 2010 at 06:15 PM

I got no response from you guys the other day, so I’ll ask again, Who is planning on attending? Should I make an univited guest appearance? Who knows, maybe Steve Yzerman will show up

The Tampa Bay Lightning will host a watch party for Game 7 between the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers (7 p.m.) for hockey fans in Shots at Channelside at the St. Pete Times Forum on Friday night from 6-10 p.m. or until the conclusion of the game. The game will also be projected on the parking garage for viewing on the West Plaza once the sun goes down. There will be free parking in the Forum West Lot while spaces are available.

The Flyers forced a Game 7 last night with a 2-1 victory against the Bruins in Philadelphia.  Michael Leighton, making his first career Stanley Cup Playoffs start in net, made 30 saves in replacing the injured Brian Boucher.  Daniel Briere and Mike Richards scored goals for Philadelphia.

Now the Flyers face a monumental task tomorrow night, trying to become just the third team in NHL history to win a series after dropping the first three games.  The 1942 Toronto Maple Leafs and the 1975 New York Islanders are the only teams to overcome 3-0 deficits to win a best-of-seven playoff series.

Aside from the chance to witness NHL history tomorrow night, fans will also be treated to free hot dogs, nachos, meatballs, dry snacks, popcorn and soda.  There will also be $2 beers and $3 well drinks.  The Lightning will also be giving away prizes throughout the night.  Lightning forward, and former Flyer, Todd Fedoruk will be on hand to participate in a question and answer session as well as mingle with fans.  Fans watching the game being projected on the parking garage can bring blankets and/or beach chairs and lounge on the Tampa Bay Storm Arena Football practice turf on the plaza.

Tomorrow will be the third Game 7 viewing party the Lightning have hosted during the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs.  More than 200 fans filled the XO VIP Club on Wednesday night to meet Tampa Bay goaltender Mike Smith and watch the Montreal Canadiens defeat the defending Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins, 5-2, in what turned out to be the final game at Mellon Arena