TAMPA, Fla. - In an exhilarating matchup on Sunday, the Tampa Bay Lightning narrowly defeated the Montreal Canadiens with a score of 5-4, as Nikita Kucherov played a pivotal role in securing the victory, scoring two goals during the game. Gage Goncalves contributed significantly as well, providing two assists and netting the decisive goal in the shootout.

The Lightning, who clinched their fourth consecutive win, showcased an impressive offense with Oliver Bjorkstrand assisting on two goals. Nick Paul and Pontus Holmberg also found the back of the net for Tampa Bay. Goaltender Jonas Johansson was instrumental in the win, stopping 32 shots and successfully defending both shootout attempts against him.

Montreal put up a valiant effort, with Juraj Slafkovsky shining bright by scoring two goals, one of which was a remarkable equalizer with just 3.8 seconds remaining in the game. Slafkovsky also added an assist, showcasing his vital role in the Canadiens' late-game resurgence. Noah Dobson contributed with a goal and an assist, while Ivan Demidov also scored for Montreal. Jacob Fowler managed 18 saves in net for the Canadiens, in what was their first game back after the Christmas break.

Kucherov's scoring prowess was evident as he netted two of Tampa Bay's three goals in the explosive second period. He initiated his scoring by converting a breakaway at 2:28, following a perfect feed from Goncalves. Kucherov tallied his second goal at 12:11 when Goncalves missed a 2-on-1 opportunity, allowing Brayden Point to capitalize on the rebound and assist him in scoring from close range.

The Lightning built a commanding 3-0 lead when Paul scored at 14:49. However, Montreal struck back quickly in the third period. Demidov busted Johansson’s shutout bid just 1:06 into the frame, scoring off a pass from Slafkovsky. Holmberg responded for Tampa Bay, deflecting a Bjorkstrand pass to reclaim a two-goal lead just 34 seconds later, marking his fourth consecutive game with a goal. Nevertheless, Montreal's determination shone through as they scored three goals in the final 10:44 of regulation.

Slafkovsky ignited Montreal's comeback at 9:16, followed by Dobson's goal at 12:17, which brought the Canadiens within a single goal. The team's rally was a remarkable display of grit and resilience, ultimately leading to a thrilling conclusion to regulation play.

Earlier in the day, Tampa Bay made roster adjustments by activating Brandon Hagel off injured reserve, following his absence for four games. In a strategic move, the Lightning also placed defenseman Ryan McDonagh on injured reserve, just three games after his return from an 18-game hiatus.

Upcoming Games:

• Canadiens: Will face the Florida Panthers on Tuesday.
• Lightning: Set to take on the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday.