All-Star break finds Lightning in first place

The Tampa Bay Lightning entered the All-Star break on a positive note.

Alex Killorn had two goals, Valtteri Filppula added a goal and an assist, and the Lightning took over the top spot in the Eastern Conference with a 4-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday night, local time.

“They’ve done everything we’ve asked,’’ said Tampa Bay Coach Jon Cooper.

Brian Boyle also scored for the Lightning, who lead the idle New York Islanders by one point in the East. Ben Bishop stopped 27 shots in Tampa Bay’s eighth straight home win.

“We’re definitely comfortable at home,’’ said Lightning defenseman Jason Garrison.

Tampa Bay kept the Canucks off the scoreboard on seven power plays, including a pair of 5-on-3s.

“Clearly, the penalty kill saved us,’’ Cooper said. “Outstanding.’’

The Lightning were 0 for 5 with the man advantage.

Vancouver got 22 saves from Ryan Miller. Frank Corrado ruined Bishop’s shutout bid at 8:09 of the third. Miller had his chance for a third consecutive shutout end late in the third period of Monday night’s 2-1 win at Florida.

The Canucks completed a five-game trip at 3-2.

“I’m pretty proud of the way they responded on this trip,” said Miller.

AP