As a Lightning fan, I couldn’t be more thrilled with their 2-0 series lead over the Dallas Stars in the Stanley Cup Final. After last night’s game, I like many others am still processing the highs and lows of the Lightning’s 3-2 victory over the Stars. Raw Charge’s Morning After Thoughts provides great insight into what worked for the Lightning last night, including Nikita Kucherov’s incredible play, as well as areas where they can improve, such as their power play. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the Lightning in Game 3.
Morning After Thoughts: Lightning Hold On – Tampa – Raw Charge
The Tampa Bay Lightning found themselves battling hard against the Montreal Canadiens at Amalie Arena on Wednesday night. Despite a tremendous effort from the Canadiens, the Lightning managed to hold on for a 2-1 win.
The Start
The start of the game was rather uneventful, as both teams felt each other out. However, midway through the first period, the Lightning were able to take control and put some pressure on the Canadiens. The Bolts first goal of the night came just over ten minutes into the first period, with Mathieu Joseph burying the puck into the net off a beautiful cross-ice pass from Ross Colton.
The Canadiens Respond
The Canadiens quickly responded to the Lightning’s goal. Just two minutes later, Montreal’s Corey Perry was able to bury a rebound that made its way onto his stick in front of the Lightning’s net. Perry’s goal was the first and only one of the night for the Canadiens, but it was one that proved how dangerous Montreal can be when given the chance.
The Canadiens continued to push hard in the second period, but Tampa Bay goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy was able to stop every shot that came his way.
The Second Goal
The Lightning’s second goal of the night came from Alex Killorn at the start of the third period. In a scramble in front of the net, Killorn was first to the puck and was able to jam it past Canadiens goalie Carey Price. This second goal would prove to be the game-winner for the Lightning.
The Canadiens Push Back
The Canadiens didn’t give up after the second goal, though. They continued to push hard and put pressure on the Lightning’s defense. However, despite several power play opportunities, the Canadiens were unable to break through and score the tying goal.
The Lightning Hold On
The Lightning held on to their slim lead for the final period and were able to close out the game with a 2-1 win. The game was a clear reminder that, even though the Canadiens are the underdogs heading into this series, they have the ability to push the defending champions to their limits.
Overall Impressions
Overall, the Lightning played a strong game. They were able to capitalize on their opportunities, with both goals coming from close-range scrums in front of the net. The defense also played exceptionally well, holding off the Canadiens’ relentless attack.
But the game also highlighted some potential flaws for the Lightning. They struggled to create chances in the second period and allowed the Canadiens to gain some momentum. They also struggled on the power play, failing to convert any of their opportunities.
Looking Forward
The Lightning’s win gives them a 1-0 lead in the series, but there is still a long road ahead. The Canadiens showed that they are not to be underestimated and will continue to fight hard throughout the series.
The Lightning will need to clean up their power play and find ways to create more chances on offense if they want to keep their momentum going. But with Vasilevskiy playing as well as he has all season, the Lightning should feel confident heading into Game 2.
Conclusion
The Lightning’s 2-1 win over the Canadiens on Wednesday night was well-deserved, but it also showed that this series could be a tough one. The Canadiens are a resilient team that won’t give up easily, and the Lightning will need to play at their best if they want to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Game 2 of the series is on Friday night, and it’s sure to be another hard-fought battle. The Lightning will need to bring their A-game if they want to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the series.
