Slumping Blackhawks Seek Redemption Against Lightning

The Chicago Blackhawks aim to reverse their fortunes as they face the Tampa Bay Lightning for the second time in five days, this time in Tampa.

Lightning Return Home After Tough Road Stretch

The Tampa Bay Lightning (24-18-6) will open a five-game homestand Tuesday after a disappointing 1-3-0 showing on their recent Original Six road trip. Their struggles culminated in a 2-0 loss to the Detroit Red Wings, marking their first shutout of the season and ending Nikita Kucherov’s 11-game point streak.

Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper pointed to the demanding schedule as a factor in their recent skid. “That was our 14th game in 24 days,” Cooper said. “The guys are gaming this out, but the outcome is not what we’re used to.”

Despite their recent struggles, the Lightning remain in the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference and will look to use their homestand to solidify their playoff position.

Blackhawks Look to Rebound After Missed Opportunities

The Chicago Blackhawks (15-25-7) will start a three-game road trip in Tampa, aiming to bounce back after a frustrating homestand that ended with a 4-2 loss to the Minnesota Wild on Sunday.

Friday’s 4-3 overtime defeat to the Lightning was particularly tough to swallow. Chicago squandered a 3-1 lead late in the second period, allowing Tampa Bay to tie the game with a 6-on-4 power-play goal in the final minute of regulation before losing on Nikita Kucherov’s overtime goal during another man advantage.

Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno emphasized the need to develop winning habits. “It’s winning hockey, it’s the habits that allow you to do that, and (in that game) it’s not getting scored on in the last minute,” Foligno said.

Key Storylines to Watch

Special Teams Battle: Tampa Bay capitalized on all three power-play opportunities in their last meeting. Chicago’s penalty kill will need to step up to avoid a repeat.

Shot Production Woes: The Blackhawks managed just two shots across consecutive periods spanning their last two games, an area they must improve to contend with Tampa Bay.

Kucherov’s Rebound: After having his point streak snapped, Kucherov will look to get back on the scoresheet and lead the Lightning offense.

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What’s at Stake

The Lightning aim to regain momentum on home ice and climb back into the Atlantic Division race. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks seek to end their struggles and improve their shot production as they navigate a tough road trip.