The Tampa Bay Lightning face uncertainties as they strive to secure a playoff spot this season, a stark contrast to their situation at the same time last year when they were comfortably positioned with a playoff berth practically secured.

The Lightning's shifting playoff prospects highlight the unpredictability of their current season compared to the previous one, emphasizing the dynamic nature of NHL standings and matchups.

• The Lightning currently have a 99.6% chance of making the playoffs, a significant increase from the roughly 50% chance they had at the start of the season.
• If the playoffs began today, the Lightning, as the top wild card seed, would face the Florida Panthers in the first round.

The article does not offer significant counterarguments or complexities.

• The Lightning are focused on accumulating enough points to secure a playoff spot and are zooming in on each game without getting ahead of themselves.
• Potential matchups for the playoffs are still up in the air due to the closely contested positions of the Panthers, Rangers, and Bruins.

The next steps for the Lightning involve maintaining their performance to solidify their playoff position and await the final determination of their first-round opponent as the regular season unfolds.

The Tampa Bay Lightning are navigating a season filled with uncertainties in their pursuit of a playoff spot, highlighting the ever-evolving nature of NHL standings and the intense competition within the league.