Lightning Overcome Canadiens in Thrilling 5-4 Shootout Victory
The Montreal Canadiens fought hard but ultimately fell short against the Tampa Bay Lightning, losing 5-4 in a dramatic shootout on Sunday at the Benchmark International Arena. It was a wild match that saw the Canadiens rally from a three-goal deficit in the third period, only to lose after a tense series of shootout attempts.
Despite an early advantage in shots on goal (11-3) in the first period, Montreal couldn’t convert on its opportunities, with Lightning goaltender Jonas Johansson putting on an impressive performance. He made key stops, including a dazzling save on Cole Caufield’s one-timer during a power play. As the game progressed, Tampa Bay seized control in the second period, capitalizing on mistakes and seizing the momentum.
Also Read:- Giants vs. Raiders: A Crucial Week 17 Showdown
- Silver Shines Bright as Precious Metals Rally Hits Historic Highs
Nikita Kucherov was the hero for the Lightning, scoring twice, while teammate Nick Paul and Pontus Holmberg also found the back of the net. After Kucherov’s early breakaway goal, which came just 2:28 into the second period, the Lightning grew their lead, adding a second goal thanks to some unfortunate luck for the Canadiens. A pass from Juraj Slafkovsky hit the linesman, setting up a counterattack for Brayden Point, who assisted Kucherov for his second goal of the game. Paul’s goal on a rebound from a two-on-one rush gave Tampa Bay a 3-0 lead.
Montreal didn’t back down, however, and quickly got back into the game in the third period. The Canadiens’ rally began just 66 seconds into the final frame when Ivan Demidov took a short pass from Slafkovsky and scored on Johansson. Tampa Bay responded quickly, as Holmberg deflected a long shot into the net, restoring the Lightning’s three-goal lead. However, Montreal kept pushing, with Slafkovsky scoring twice more—once with a sharp shot from the crease, and then a powerful blast with just 3.8 seconds left in regulation to tie the game at 4-4.
In overtime, the Canadiens had a chance to win but were thwarted by Johansson’s quick reflexes, including a save on Caufield’s shot. The game then went to a shootout, where Brayden Point and Gage Concalves scored for Tampa Bay, while Jacob Fowler stopped 18 shots through 65 minutes of play, but couldn’t prevent the Lightning from sealing the win.
Montreal will now look to regroup for their next game on Tuesday against the Florida Panthers, but they’ll no doubt reflect on a game full of highs and lows—where their determination nearly resulted in an incredible comeback, only to fall just short in the shootout.
Read More:
0 Comments