Oct 11 @ NYR
To start the year it was a ECF rematch against the New York Rangers. Rangers G Igor Shesterkin was solid in his home opener saving 25-26 shots. Stammer was able to net his first goal of the season in the loss to the Rangers. Vasilevskiy was pressured in this game saving 36-39 as we were outshot in the contest.
Final TB 1 @ NYR 3
Oct 14 @ CBJ
The Bolts were able to get in the win column in Columbus. Vasilevskiy had a great game saving 26-28 and giving the bolts a chance to win with some production on the offense. Stamkos is starting off strong in the first two games, scoring 2 more goals to lift the Bolts to their first victory of the year.
Final TB 5 @ CBJ 2
Oct 15 @ PIT
The Bolts got another tough matchup. Despite goals from Brayden Point and Stamkos it wasn’t enough as the Penguins stormed through Tampa, scoring 4 goals in the 3rd period. A rough outing for Brian Elliot in his first start this year, only saving 39-44 shots.
Final TB 2 @ PIT 6
The Lightning (1-2-0) will host the Philadelphia Flyers (2-0-0) next for their first home game of the season.
Ben Solenberger