Anders Lindback Photo by Alexis Boucher

The Lightning are extremely lucky to have pulled out a win against the Panthers tonight. Tampa registered just 13 shots on goal through the whole entire game. We’ve been remembering moments over the team’s 20 year history this season and they made it again tonight. They registered the lowest number of shots in franchise history. On the other end of the ice, Anders Lindback faced 39 shots. How on earth did the Bolts end up winning 3-2? Lindback stopped 37 of the Panthers chances.

It’s going to be difficult for some to give credit where it’s due, but Lindback stole this game for the Lightning. That can’t even be argued.

One of the biggest stories going into the game tonight was Radko Gudas making his NHL debut. The hard hitting defenseman certainly made an impact. He registered 15:02 in ice time and saw his shifts increase as the game went on. An unfortunate play which saw Kris Versteeg’s knee run into the back of Gudas’ leg while the Bolt was going for the puck had some labeling the d man as a goon already. Not sure about that, but he definitely has more than a fair share of grit in his play. He was extremely fun to watch.

Vinny Lecavalier and Marty St. Louis scored the first goals for the Bolts. Alex Killorn had assists on both of those tallies, including one on Marty’s goal sans helmet. Marty registered three assists of his own. Steven Stamkos scored the eventual game winner on a third period power play from an impossible angle. That makes 20 on the year for Stammer.

Unfortunately Tom Pyatt left the game with an upper body injury. No word on the extent of that just yet. Unfortunately there was a bit of a second period collapse. They don’t have to be pretty as long as you get the W. This one certainly wasn’t gorgeous, but it earned the Lightning a much needed 2 points.