Lightning Get First Win of 2023 4-1 Over Blackhakws.

By Jake Ricker

The Lightning took on the Chicago Blackhakws in their first game of a back-to-back. Brian Elliott would be back in the pipes after not playing in the last back-to-back. Here are a few things we noticed from each period.

1st Period

The Lightning got off to a slower start, with Chicago picking up the initial chances. Things only got worse as Chicago picked up the first goal of the game on the power play. It was not a good start for the Lightning, and it felt like the Arizona game all over again.

Ian Cole did not have a good period taking two penalties in the first half of the period. Cole has been pretty solid for the Bolts, but this was not his finest moment.

The Lightning did eventually fight back and tie the game, but it was a less than ideal start against a Chicago team that is struggling mightily.

2nd Period

This period felt like the Lightning were playing the post more then the Blackhakws. The Lightning hit the post three difrent times and just couldn't find the back of the net. This was alos a penalty riddled peariod with both teams spending lots of time on special teams.

The Lightning played well but after 40 minutes would still find themselves tied at one despite having lots of good chances.

3rd Period

The Lightning finally got the period they wanted in the third, scoring two goals and really controlling the period. Brandon Hagel, who was one of the goal-scorers, has played very well this season. On pace for at least 30 goals, Hagel has really fit into his role here in Tampa Bay.

Brian Elliott also had a decent game making some good saves late in the game to keep the Lightning with the advantage. A lot of credit should be given to Victor Hedman as well, who made two great defensive plays to prevent scoring chances.

Three Stars

1. Maroon (1G)

2. Hagel (1G,1A)

3. Elliott (25SV)

The Lightning's next game will be against the Minnesota Wild on Thursday, January 4th, at 9:30 PM ET.

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