TAMPA – Nicholas Paul’s crucial goal in the final minutes lifted the Tampa Bay Lightning to a narrow 5-4 win against the Vegas Golden Knights at Amalie Arena on Thursday. In a game filled with momentum shifts and high tension, Paul’s rebound goal from the left face-off circle proved to be the difference maker.
Paul, who also contributed an assist in the game, capitalized on a play initiated by Victor Hedman, showcasing his opportunistic nature. “I just tried to be in the right place at the right time,” Paul said, reflecting on his game-winning goal.
The Lightning (16-13-5), who have now won three of their last four games, saw significant contributions from their key players. Brayden Point scored twice and added an assist, while Nikita Kucherov also had a goal and two assists. Hedman’s three assists were pivotal, and goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy made 30 saves to anchor the team’s defense.
Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance against a top-ranked opponent. “We showed we can compete with the best, and this win is a testament to our team’s character,” Cooper said.
The Golden Knights (21-8-5) were led by Jonathan Marchessault, who scored twice, and Paul Cotter, who added a goal and an assist. Despite strong performances from Jack Eichel and Brayden McNabb, who each had two assists, and goalie Jiri Patera’s 31 saves, Vegas fell short in the closely contested match.
Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy acknowledged the team’s effort, particularly in the third period, but lamented the missed opportunities. “We played well enough to win, but couldn’t capitalize in crucial moments,” Cassidy said.
The game began with Vegas taking an early lead through Marchessault and Ivan Barbashev, but Tampa Bay responded fiercely. The Lightning’s barrage of goals, including a 5-on-3 tally from Kucherov and a power-play strike by Point, showcased their offensive firepower.
Marchessault’s second goal and Cotter’s equalizer in the third period brought Vegas back into the game, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. Karlsson and Eichel’s late attempts nearly changed the outcome, but Vasilevskiy’s crucial saves ensured a Lightning victory.
In terms of individual achievements, Eichel extended his point streak to 12 games, and Point reached a career milestone with his 500th NHL point. “It’s an incredible feeling to reach this milestone with such a great team,” Point said.
The game was also notable for its intensity, with Vegas blocking 23 shots, and both teams battling fiercely for control. The Golden Knights, tied atop the NHL standings with the Vancouver Canucks, will look to bounce back from this setback.
For the Lightning, who continue to build momentum, this victory is a significant boost as they navigate the middle of their season. The absence of defenseman Mikhail Sergachev due to injury was a challenge, but the team’s depth and resilience were on full display. With Point and Stamkos extending their point streaks, Tampa Bay looks poised to maintain their competitive edge in upcoming contests.
