TAMPA — The Tampa Bay Lightning secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over the New Jersey Devils at Amalie Arena on Thursday, with Darren Raddysh scoring the winning goal in overtime. Raddysh’s well-placed snap shot from the right circle showcased his skill and helped the Lightning continue their recent success.
Raddysh’s goal, reflecting his ability to capitalize on opportunities, underlined the importance of this win for the Lightning (21-17-5) in their pursuit of better standings. Luke Glendening scored twice, and Brayden Point added another goal, while Nikita Kucherov and Nick Perbix each had two assists. Goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy made 27 saves, contributing significantly to the team’s win.
Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper acknowledged the team’s awareness of their standings and the need for points, praising their newfound ability to clinch tight games. The Lightning have won two in a row and three of their last four games.
For the Devils (21-15-3), Dawson Mercer, Jesper Bratt, and Nathan Bastian scored, with goalie Vitek Vanecek making 16 saves. Despite the loss, Devils coach Lindy Ruff appreciated his team’s performance, particularly in creating opportunities and moving the puck effectively.
The game was competitive from the start, with Mercer giving the Devils an early lead. Glendening’s two goals, including a short-handed one, shifted the momentum in favor of Tampa Bay. Point’s goal further extended their lead, but the Devils fought back with goals from Bratt and Bastian.
The Devils thought they had taken the lead in the third period with a goal from Michael McLeod, but it was overturned after a successful coach’s challenge by the Lightning for offside.
New Jersey’s Bastian, playing his 200th NHL game, highlighted the team’s collective effort and the importance of everyone stepping up. The Devils’ determination and resilience were evident, despite falling short in overtime.
In team notes, Tampa Bay’s Point has achieved at least 20 goals for seven consecutive seasons. Kucherov leads the NHL with 69 points and has matched Victor Hedman for the second-most 40-assist seasons in Lightning history.
The game also saw Tampa Bay defenseman Erik Cernak leave in the first period due to a check from Bastian and did not return. This win for the Lightning demonstrates their capability to secure crucial points as they aim to improve their position in the standings.
