The Tampa Bay Lightning can throw pucks at your net and score at a scary rate of speed when they’re rolling on all cylinders, and even without Simon Gagne in the second period of Game 1 against the Washington Capitals, the Bolts were able to turn a 2-1 deficit into a 3-2 lead rather quickly.
Lightning Vs. Capitals, Game 1 Score: Steven Stamkos, Steve Downie Give Bolts 3-2 Lead
After Eric Fehr gave the Caps a lead just two minutes into the period, Tampa Bay had to hold off a few chances throughout the period from the also-potent Washington squad. With about four minutes left in the period, however, Steve Downie backhanded the puck on Michal Neuvirth’s goal in what seemed like an otherwise innocent play. It found its way over the shoulder of the Caps goaltender and into the back of the net to tie the score.
Then, with Jason Chimera in the box for roughing late in the period, Steven Stamkos got the Lightning power play on the board for the first time in three attempts. He banged at a loose puck along the post and it found white paint behind Neuvirth, and as a result, the Bolts have a 3-2 lead heading into the third period.
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