By Jake Ricker
The Lightning faced off against the Los Angeles Kings, looking to try and snap their bad stretch of Hockey. Here are a few things we noticed from the Lightning's 3-0 shutout win over the Kings.
Brandon Hagel
Brandon Hagel entered the night on an 8-game scoreless streak, which he quickly snapped with a great move and shot to give the Lightning a 1-0 lead. Hagel finished the night with 2 goals and 1 assist for a total of 3 points. It was great to see Hagel looking like his old self. Creating chances and flying up and down the ice, Hagel was a problem for the Kings on the ice.
One of the issues for the Lightning on this tough stretch was finishing on their chances. If guys like Hagel can continue to get the puck in the back of the net, there is no doubt they can get back to being in the win collum consistently.
Power Play
The Lightning power play continued to struggle, going 0/2 tonight. The power play did generate some chances but credit to the Kings, who played very well and defensively to hold off the Lightning. This is now the second game in a row the Lightning could not get a goal on the man advantage, and while not a pressing issue, it's something the Lightning might want to keep on.
A large part of the issue is the Lightning have not been able to finish on their chances. This is a hard thing to "fix" because the chances are there. The Key will be for the Lightning to keep pushing the way they have been because, eventually, they will start going in again.
Andrei Vasielvskiy
Vasilevskiy, who returned after a one-game absence due to an illness, was fantastic tonight, picking up his 37th career shutout. Vasilevskiy had a much better defense in front of him tonight than in games past, but he still came up with a few key saves with the Lightning only leading by one for a majority of the game.
The fans made sure Vaislevskiy knew they appreciated his play with plenty of Vasy chants. After the game, Vasy spoke about the fans' support.
"Amazing... our fans are the best in the world. So grateful to play here in front of them and hear my name." - Andrei Vasilevskiy
Next, the Lightning will welcome the New York Islanders in the third of their five-game home stand. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 PM EST on Thursday at Amalie Arena.
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