Recap: Senators Fall to Lightning in Game 4, Trail Series 3-1
In a thrilling back-and-forth matchup, the Ottawa Senators were bested by the Tampa Bay Lightning, who clinched a 4-2 victory in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference playoff series. With this win, Tampa Bay takes a commanding 3-1 lead in the series, putting Ottawa on the brink of elimination as they head back to Amalie Arena for Game 5.
How the Game Unfolded
The game started with both teams displaying their offensive talents. Early in the first period, both squads exchanged scoring opportunities, but it was Tampa Bay who drew first blood. Following a defensive miscue by Ottawa, Brayden Point capitalized, slotting the puck past Senators’ netminder Anton Forsberg at 7:52.
Ottawa quickly responded, with Tim Stützle lighting the lamp five minutes later on a beautiful wrist shot that beat Andrei Vasilevskiy. The Senators gained momentum with this equalizer, creating the illusion that they were ready to take control. However, that shifted remarkably fast when Victor Hedman took advantage of an Ottawa turnover, restoring Tampa Bay’s lead just before the intermission with a laser from the blue line.
The second period saw Ottawa pressing and generating quality chances but failing to convert. Tampa Bay’s special teams came to the forefront, as the Lightning’s penalty kill stifled Ottawa’s power play opportunities. It wasn’t until the final moments of the second that Nikita Kucherov, emerging from the shadows of the lesser part of the game, found the back of the net on a power play goal, putting the Lightning up 3-1.
Ottawa showed grit in the third period. Within the first five minutes, Drake Batherson tapped in a rebound to cut the lead to one, sending the Canadian crowd into a frenzy. But the Lightning, relying on their experience, tightened up defense and pushed back effectively. Steven Stamkos added an insurance goal with just under three minutes left, ensuring the Lightning would leave with the victory.
Turning Points and Key Sequences
One of the key moments of the game occurred during Ottawa’s power play late in the second period. With a chance to narrow the deficit, their failure to score not only left them down two goals but also stifled their momentum. The subsequent penalty kill by Tampa Bay showcased their defensive fortitude, restricting Ottawa’s top players from finding their rhythm.
On the flip side, Victor Hedman’s goal, which came in the dying seconds of the first period, was critical. It shifted the tide right before the intermission, giving Tampa Bay the confidence they needed to maintain control throughout the second.
Standout Performances
Tampa Bay’s Andrei Vasilevskiy was once again a wall in net, stopping 33 out of 35 shots and making critical saves when called upon. Brayden Point continued to demonstrate his clutch playoff ability, not only opening the scoring but playing a vital role throughout, winning key face-offs in the offensive zone.
For Ottawa, Tim Stützle was impressive, scoring the first goal and creating several opportunities throughout the game. Anton Forsberg showed moments of brilliance between the pipes, but the two early goals he allowed put him in an uphill battle.
Series or Playoff Context
With this victory, Tampa Bay holds a 3-1 series advantage, putting them one game away from advancing to the next round. The Lightning’s ability to steal home-ice advantage early on has put the Senators under immense pressure. Game 5 at Amalie Arena will be crucial for Ottawa, as a loss would eliminate them from the playoffs. Conversely, Tampa Bay will aim to finish the series strong, hoping to close it out at home.
What Comes Next
The teams will face off again in Tampa for Game 5 on Thursday night. Key points to watch include Ottawa’s power play effectiveness and how they can better contain Tampa’s star players like Point and Kucherov. Expect the Senators to reevaluate their line combinations and defensive pairings as they look to extend their playoff run.
What adjustment should the Senators focus on before Game 5?
