SEATTLE — In a dominant display, the Tampa Bay Lightning triumphed over the Seattle Kraken with a commanding 5-1 victory on Saturday night. Brandon Hagel was a standout performer, netting two goals, while Jake Guentzel contributed with a goal and an assist. Brayden Point also made his mark, scoring one goal and providing an assist, and Declan Carlie celebrated his first NHL goal during the match. Goaltender Jonas Johansson played a significant role in the win, making 21 saves.

For Seattle, Brandon Montour managed to find the back of the net, while Philipp Grubauer recorded 26 saves in goal. Montour gave the Kraken the lead early in the first period, scoring a power-play goal just 4:24 into the game with a powerful slap shot. However, the Lightning quickly responded, with Hagel leveling the score at 8:16 through a deft tip-in past Grubauer. Point then added another goal with just under seven minutes left in the first period, putting Tampa Bay ahead.

In the third period, Guentzel continued his impressive streak by scoring a power-play goal at 4:03, marking his sixth consecutive game with a goal. Point assisted on this goal, increasing his total to 15 points over the last five games. Hagel later sealed the game with an empty-net goal at 3:52 remaining on the clock, followed by Carlie closing out the scoring in the final minute of play.

Observations from the game indicated that the Lightning have been particularly effective on the power play, successfully scoring eight times in their last six games. Conversely, the Kraken’s defensive shortcomings were evident, with Jamie Oleksiak’s turnover leading to one of Hagel’s goals, and Matty Beniers failing to clear a rebound which allowed Point to score.

A crucial moment in the match occurred when Johansson made three impressive saves in quick succession against Eeli Tolvanen midway through the second period, all from very close range. Notably, the Lightning excelled defensively, not allowing any goals at even strength throughout the game.

Looking ahead, the Kraken are set to face the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday as they wrap up a four-game homestand, while the Lightning will take on the Columbus Blue Jackets in their next match.