Photo by Alexis Boucher
The Lightning’s 20th anniversary celebration may have been delayed, but they kicked off the shortened season with style. It took a little while for things to gel, but the team looked extremely solid. Some unexpected sources of offense lead the Bolts to a 6-3 victory over their division rival Washington Capitals.
Eric Brewer opened the scoring for the Lightning in the first period and chipped in another goal on the power play in the third. Marty St. Louis also scored two and it felt so good to hear “Louie Louie” ringing out through the Forum again.
A happy surprise on the evening came in the form of Cory Conacher. After cracking the opening night roster, the forward made the most of his opportunity. After assisting on Marty’s first goal and earning his first NHL point, he scored his first NHL goal in the third.
Vinny Lecavalier rounded out the scoring in an effort that saw both teams come out a bit slow. Tampa came around and the sold out Tampa Bay Times Forum was extra loud tonight. Our boys are back and it feels absolutely amazing. We’re undefeated right now so… woo!
A few thoughts:
-Lindback looked very quick in net. Good lateral movement and good reflexes with the glove. He did face 30 shots over the course of the game.
-Salo and Carle are a huge upgrade on the blueline. It was an absolute pleasure watching the little things that veteran defenseman just know how to do. A hallmark of a good defenseman is that you don’t necessarily notice them that much. Not flashy, but effective at what they do.
-Marty could have scored 7 goals if he took the shot instead of constantly looking for the pass.
A good win, the building was packed, and so it begins.
