NHL Playoffs: 5 things we learned from Lightning beating Islanders

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May 8, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman (77) shoots on goal to score a goal against the New York Islanders during the first period in game five of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Victor Hedman can take over a series

While Kucherov and Bishop lit up the stat sheet, it was Hedman who was the best player on the ice all series long for the Lightning. Even on a deep and very talented roster, Hedman stood out as the key difference maker.

Hedman totaled eight points in the five-game series after tallying just one in an unproductive First Round series by his standards against Detroit. Four of those came on goals, including two in the deciding Game 5, as the Islanders simply had no answer.

That’s nothing new for Hedman, as he’s been a fantastic all-around player over the last three years, including a mark of +21 with 47 points this year. The 25-year-old really burst onto the national scene with a 14-point effort last postseason, and has only gotten better in 2016.

Hedman’s contributions in areas besides offense were even more important against New York. In particular, Hedman did an excellent job when paired against Islanders star John Tavares, who looked unstoppable in the First Round against the Florida Panthers and in Game 1 of this series. After totaling 11 points in his first seven playoff games, Tavares was shut out in the final four contests against Tampa Bay, thanks to Hedman.

Even the likes of Sidney Crosby or Alexander Ovechkin could have trouble against Hedman, who is now at the forefront of the Conn Smythe Trophy discussion.

Next: 4. Don't bet against Ben Bishop in elimination games

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