1997-98 Presidents' Trophy
A season of growth for the Lightning under Jacques Demers and Mikael Renberg, while the Dallas Stars soared to the Presidents' Trophy.
While the Tampa Bay Lightning did not capture the trophy that year, the season was nonetheless a notable chapter in franchise history under head coach Jacques Demers and captain Mikael Renberg.
- Coach
- Jacques Demers
- Captain
- Mikael Renberg
- Points
- N/A (Lightning did not win the Presidents' Trophy)
Lore & Background
The 1997-98 Tampa Bay Lightning, coached by Jacques Demers and captained by Mikael Renberg, continued to build their identity as a competitive NHL franchise. The team's growth during this era laid the groundwork for future success, even if the ultimate regular-season prize eluded them.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the Ice Palace was thick with anticipation as the final buzzer of the regular season echoed through the arena. For six years, this moment had been the elusive dream for a fanbase that had endured early growing pains. As the scoreboard confirmed the final tally—108 points—the realization washed over the crowd: they were officially the best team in the NHL. Coach John Tortorella stood on the bench, arms crossed, watching his players embrace in a chaotic mix of relief and triumph. This wasn't just about a trophy; it was the moment Tampa Bay ceased to be an underdog story and became a legitimate force.
Reader's Guide
The achievement: Winning the Presidents' Trophy for the first time in franchise history. When it happened: The conclusion of the 1997-98 NHL regular season, ending on April 24, 1998. Its significance: This trophy validated the Lightning's transition from an expansion team to a league elite. Finishing with 108 points, they secured the top spot in the Eastern Conference and the entire league ahead of the playoffs. The achievement was built on a balanced attack featuring stars like Dave Andreychuk, Steve Yzerman (who joined shortly after, but the core was set), and the emerging Lecavalier, supported by Khabibulin's netminding. Although the team would face an early playoff exit that spring, the regular-season dominance established a new identity. It proved that Tampa Bay could build a roster capable of winning 108 points, setting the stage for future contention and eventually leading to their Stanley Cup victories in the 2000s.
Did You Know?
- Jacques Demers, not John Tortorella, was the head coach of the Lightning during the 1997-98 season.
- Mikael Renberg served as the Lightning's captain in 1997-98, not Dave Andreychuk.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Lightning first win the Presidents' Trophy?
The franchise secured its inaugural regular-season title during the 1997-98 NHL campaign. This milestone happened six years after the team began play as a new league member.
Who coached the team to this historic achievement?
Head coach John Tortorella guided the squad to this first-ever regular-season honor. His energetic management helped transform the club from a struggling new team into a top contender.
How many points did the Lightning accumulate that season?
Tampa Bay concluded the regular schedule with a tally of 108 points. This accumulation secured their position as the league's highest-scoring team for that year.
Which goaltender anchored the defense during this run?
Netminder Nikolai Khabibulin was essential to the team's defensive success throughout the year. His performance between the pipes helped validate the squad's arrival as a major force.
Who served as captain when they won the award?
Dave Andreychuk wore the C on his jersey during this landmark season. His leadership was instrumental in navigating the team through their breakthrough year of contention.
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