Kucherov’s hat-trick powers the Lightning past the Bruins

Winslow Townson-USA TODAY SportsThe Tampa Bay Lightning defeated the Boston Bruins 6-3. By winning in regulation, the Lightning gain traction in their race to make the playoffs while also keeping points away from a divisional rival. The Lightning trail the Bruins by the 3 points for the second wild card spot.

All in all, this was a solid game by the Lightning, especially considering they played most of it without second pairing defenseman Jason Garrison. The defense adapted fairly well and the forwards contributed to protecting their own net.

First Period

The first ten minutes of the game were very defensively minded. Boston got three shots on goal while Tampa managed to send just two pucks…