DETROIT (AP) — In a thrilling matchup on Saturday, Brandon Hagel showcased his skills with two goals and two assists, propelling the Tampa Bay Lightning to a commanding 6-3 win over the Detroit Red Wings. Erik Cernak also made a significant impact, contributing a goal and two assists to the team’s success. The Lightning have been in exceptional form, boasting a 4-0-1 record in their last five games. Adding to the offensive prowess, Brayden Point notched his 30th goal of the season, with Nikita Kucherov providing three assists.
Making a memorable NHL debut, Dylan Duke found the back of the net for Tampa Bay. Duke, who previously played for the University of Michigan, was called up from the Syracuse of the American Hockey League just a day before the game. On the opposing side, the Red Wings’ Vladimir Tarasenko reached a career milestone by scoring his 300th goal during the first period. Alex DeBrincat also displayed his talents with a goal and two assists, while Patrick Kane added to Detroit’s tally. Goaltender Cam Talbot stepped in for Alex Lyon early in the game after Lyon allowed two goals in the opening 2 minutes and 56 seconds.
Notable takeaways from the game include Point’s impressive record of 20 goals in 37 career games against Detroit, showcasing his dominance over the team. The Red Wings fell short of their bid to secure an eighth consecutive win, a feat they have not achieved since the 2007-08 season.
A pivotal moment in the match came when Duke capitalized on a rebound early in the third period, extending Tampa Bay’s lead to 5-3 after the Red Wings had closed the gap. A key statistic from the game is Kucherov’s remarkable consistency, with points registered in 17 of the last 18 games. His only scoreless performance in this period was on January 25th, coinciding with the Lightning’s loss to the Red Wings.
Looking ahead, the Lightning are set to face off against the Montreal Canadiens on Sunday, while the Red Wings will host the Minnesota Wild on February 22nd.
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