DALLAS — Lightning Beat Stars 3-2 with Shootout Victory
Tampa Bay’s Gage Goncalves scored the winning goal in the shootout against the Stars on Thursday night, securing a 3-2 victory for the Lightning. Brandon Hagel and Anthony Cirelli also contributed with a goal and an assist each for Tampa Bay, extending their winning streak to three games. Goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy made key saves during the game, including two in the shootout.
The game was a hard-fought battle, with both teams having opportunities to win in regulation. The Stars, who had an eight-game home winning streak snapped, saw goals from Oskar Back and Mason Marchment. Despite a strong performance by goalie Casey DeSmith, the Stars fell short in the shootout.
Goncalves, a relatively young player in the NHL at 24 years old, proved his skill with the shootout goal. Coach Jon Cooper praised Goncalves’ ability to deliver when it mattered most, highlighting his success in shootouts in the American Hockey League.
Key moments in the game included a breakdown in the Stars’ defense that allowed Hagel to score, as well as Cirelli’s goal to give the Lightning a 2-0 lead. The Stars fought back with goals from Back and Marchment, but ultimately fell short in the shootout.
Takeaways
Lightning:A lineup adjustment with 11 forwards and seven defensemen proved effective for Tampa Bay, despite losing players to injuries during the game.
Stars:Wyatt Johnston’s impressive home point streak fell just short of a Dallas record.
Key moment
Vasilevskiy’s crucial save on a scoring chance by Johnston in the final seconds of regulation.
Key stat
Vasilevskiy’s strong record against Dallas continued, maintaining his dominance over the team in regular-season play.
Up next
The Lightning will face Utah next, with the game scheduled for Saturday. TV/radio: FanDuel Sports Sun; 102.5-FM
Conclusion
The Lightning’s shootout victory over the Stars showcased their resilience and skill, securing another win in their successful season.
FAQs
Q: Who scored the winning goal in the shootout for Tampa Bay?
A: Gage Goncalves scored the decisive goal for the Lightning.
Q: How did Vasilevskiy contribute to the victory?
A: Vasilevskiy made critical saves throughout the game, including in the shootout, to help secure the win for Tampa Bay.
