Photo by Andrew Bershaw/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
TAMPA BAY, FLA- The No.1 team in the Eastern Conference Carolina Hurricanes, traveled to face the No.5 Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena on Tuesday night.
A playoff atmosphere in Tampa resulted in a thrilling overtime matchup. Steven Stamkos scored the overtime goal as the Lightning defeated the Hurricanes 4-3.
Carolina scored the lone goal in the first period. Nino Niederreiter (21) found the back of the net to put the Hurricanes up 1-0.
After being held scoreless in the opening period, the Lightning evened the score within the first minute of the second period. Alex Killorn’s (21) power-play goal got Tampa Bay on the board. Victor Hedman added one more tally for the Lightning in the period for his 19th goal of the year.
However, Carolina would end the second period back with the lead. With goals by Seth Jarvis (13) and Sabastian Aho (30), the Hurricanes went into the final period up 3-2.
Tampa Bay evened the game back up at 3-3 on Brayden Point’s (25) power-play goal with 13:58 left in regulation.
After a crucial penalty, Steven Stamkos (30) scored the game-winner in overtime to seal the Lightning win.
Power Play Scores
Potentially the key difference in this game was the Lightning’s ability to score with the man advantage.
Tampa Bay was successful on three of its four power-play opportunities. Carolina didn’t capitalize on either of their two chances.
The big power-play goal came as the game-winner in overtime by Steven Stamkos.
With power-play goals by Alex Killorn, Brayden Point, and Steven Stamkos, the Lightning scored three of their four goals on the power-play.
Playoff Environment
Tuesday night’s matchup gave off a strong playoff feel. With both teams closing in on a playoff berth, this game provided a playoff series preview.
Tampa Bay is the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions and is not ready to give up their throne. The Lightning is No.2 in the Atlantic Division and have the roster and experience to make a deep run.
Carolina has played a high level of hockey throughout the entire season. The Hurricanes haven’t had too many ups and downs, they just win.
With the best record in the Eastern Conference at 44-15-8, they have 96 points, which ranks No.2 in the NHL behind the Colorado Avalanche’s 98.
Carolina has been competing and now has a realistic chance to take home the President’s trophy at the end of the regular season.
Up Next
Carolina heads home to host the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday, March 31.
Tampa Bay remains home and will face the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday, April 1.
