By Jake Ricker
The Lightning took on the Montreal Canadiens last night as they extend their winning streak to three on hall of fame night. Marroon and Perbix would be the healthy scratches, while Raddysh and Eyssimont checked back into the lineup. Here are a few things we noticed from the win.
Resiliency
This game got off to a fast start, with the Canadiens taking an early 1-0 lead. The Lightning were getting a majority of the chances, though, and were able to take the lead. The Canadiens eventually fought back and took a lead themselves despite again the Lightning outshooting them. This is where we got to see the Resiliency of the team as despite being down by one after leading, they continued to push and never backed down.
The Lightning dominated the third period and scored three goals in the final 20 minutes. It was a great showing from the Lightning as they made adjustments and never panicked. Ideally, the Lightning can stay out in front, but it was good to see how the team is able to respond when facing adversity.
Brandon Hagel
Brandon Hagel has had a fantastic season, already surpassing his career-best in goals. Hagel was again great tonight, showing his speed and ability to win puck battles in the corner. Because of his great play, Hagel found success offensively as well. Hagel picked up his second career hat trick in his 200th game. Funny enough, his first hat trick came in his 100th career game. Hagels first goal came from a low angel thanks to being in the right place at the right time. The second was a nice deflection in front of the net. The final goal came on an empty net after Hagel forced a takeaway and fired it home from center ice.
Hagel now has 27 goals on the season and is just three away from 30. Hagel has a great shot and great speed, which can really come in handy this postseason if Hagel stays hot. For a guy that was criticized for not contributing enough in the playoffs last year, he has responded really well.
Darren Raddysh
Raddysh has not played in many games for the Lightning this season, but because of his success in the AHL, he has continued to get chances at the NHL. Raddys did not score in tonight's game but played one of his best games this season. Raddysh finished the night as a +1 with 2 SOG, two hits, and one takeaway. While he may not have had his name come up a lot on the broadcast, this is usually a sign a defender was doing his job and being responsible with the puck. Raddysh moved the puck efficiently and was able to hold his own defensively. If Raddysh can continue to improve his movement and continue to hold his ground, the offense should follow.
Final Thoughts
Tonight was a fun night with the Lightning unveiling the new hall of fame and all the alumni at the game. Despite being down in this game, the Lightning never slowed down and eventually started to capitalize on their chances and take home the win. Hagel was fantastic, scoring a hat trick, and the Lightning pick up their third win in a row. And, of course, another huge congratulation to Vinny, Mary, and Phil on this special night.
Three Stars
Media’s three stars
1. Hagel (3G)
2. Sergachev (2A)
3. Hoffman (1G,1A)
Our three stars
1. Hagel (3G)
2. Kucherov (2A)
3. Hoffman (1G,1A)
The Lightning's next game will be against the New Jersey Devils on Sunday, March 19th, at 7:00 PM ET.
Want to start your journalism career by writing about the Tampa Bay Lightning? Send us a message via our contact form located in the upper right-hand corner under the more tab, or send us a message via Twitter to get started.
Comments