Tough Start for Tampa Bay
The Tampa Bay Lightning kicked off their 2025-26 NHL season with a tough 5-4 loss against the Ottawa Senators at their newly named Benchmark International Arena. Despite goals from Oliver Bjorkstrand, Brayden Point, and two from Nikita Kucherov, the Lightning were unable to hold off a late surge from the Senators.
Key Moments
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with Tampa Bay taking a 3-1 lead early in the second period. However, the Senators battled back, with Shane Pinto scoring two goals, including the game-winner with just 1:47 remaining. Pinto's heroics spoiled a strong performance from Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy, who made 34 saves on the night.
Player Impact
Brayden Point led the way offensively for the Lightning, recording a goal and two assists. Nikita Kucherov also had a solid outing, scoring twice for Tampa Bay. On the Senators side, Pinto was the star, while goaltender Jonas Johansson made 28 saves to earn the victory.
TL;DR
- The Tampa Bay Lightning dropped their season opener 5-4 to the Ottawa Senators at home.
- Shane Pinto scored the game-winning goal for the Senators with under 2 minutes remaining.
- Brayden Point and Nikita Kucherov each had strong offensive performances for the Lightning in the loss.
- The game was a back-and-forth affair, with the Senators rallying from an early deficit to secure the victory.