When the Lightning traveled to California for a three-game trip, they were unable to bring their high-powered offense with them. With the best scoring offense in the league, averaging 3.94 goals per game, Tampa Bay struggled to find the back of the net in losses to San Jose, Los Angeles, and Anaheim, scoring just three goals combined.
Unlike previous struggles that stemmed from defensive lapses, the Lightning’s recent losses were not due to poor defensive play. In fact, based on expected goals created numbers, Tampa Bay should have come out victorious in all three games.
Despite allowing only seven goals on the trip, with a 2.33 goals-against average over three games, the Lightning were unable to secure any points. Head coach Jon Cooper acknowledged the team’s solid effort but emphasized the need to find ways to win close games.
Stars dimmed
The Lightning rely heavily on their top five goal-scorers, with Brayden Point, Jake Guentzel, Nikita Kucherov, Brandon Hagel, and Anthony Cirelli contributing almost 70% of the team’s offense. However, during the recent road trip, the top line of Point, Guentzel, and Kucherov failed to produce, going scoreless in 5-on-5 play.
Despite generating high-danger chances, the top line struggled to convert, with Guentzel’s power-play goal in Anaheim being the only exception. The power play unit also faced challenges, going 1-for-9 in the past four games, including a loss to Montreal.
Period-to-period play
A loss to the Sharks set a disappointing tone for the trip, followed by a heart-breaking defeat to the Kings. Despite holding Los Angeles to minimal shots and scoring chances in the first period, the Lightning failed to capitalize on their opportunities.
Costly errors, like a defensive breakdown leading to a 2-on-1 rush and a lack of goal production, plagued the Lightning in close games against the Kings and Ducks. Despite generating more shots and high-danger chances, Tampa Bay couldn’t overcome deficits and secure wins.
