Lightning Round: Syracuse Crunch Clinch Playoff Spot

Much like their NHL brethren, the Syracuse Crunch did not have to win a game to clinch a spot in the AHL playoffs. Prior to the drop of the puck in their match against the Belleville Senators, Syracuse punched their ticket to the postseason when the Utica Comets lost to the Toronto Marlies. With their spot secured, the Lightning's AHL-affiliate can focus on grabbing one of the top two seeds in the North Division which would keep them out of the best-of-three opening round and give them a little bit of a break after the regular season. Syracuse head coach should get some consideration for the Louis AR Pieri Memorial Award which is given to the most outstanding coach in the league.