TAMPA, Fla. -- The Carolina Hurricanes made quick work of the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday night.

The Canes scored four times in the first period in taking a 5-2 victory at Tampa Bay Times Forum. Jiri Tlusty scored twice, and Tuomo Ruutu and Jay Harrison each had a goal in the opening period.

Eric Staal had three assists in the most impressive first period -- perhaps any period -- by the Canes this season.

"In the first period we were aggressive, we were on the attack," Staal said. "We were rewarded with some opportunities and cashed in. We tried to get (Tlusty) that third one but it was a good effort by our line and a good road with for us.

I should have done this earlier in the year, but I put together a gallery of lightning images for you shutterbugs. Keep an eye on the weather and have have a tripod handy. Clouds and landmarks can add dramatic interest, but being in the right place at the right time is important. Getting too close to lightning is not only dangerous, but often does not help the photo. Use common sense.

TAMPA, Fla. -- For the first 53 minutes Friday, the Carolina Hurricanes were in firm control and the Tampa Bay Lightning looked very much like the team that has been stumbling and bumbling of late and driving its fans a bit batty.

When Eric Staal scored his 30th goal of the season, with 7:40 left in regulation, the Canes led 4-1. Many Lightning fans began leaving St. Pete Times Forum and the ones still in the arena had spent some time venting and booing the home team.

Who knew that the final seven minutes would be so frenetic, so thrilling, with the Bolts suddenly coming alive and the Canes having to gamely hold on for a 4-3 win?