Juraj Slafkovsky recorded a hat trick, including the game-winning goal in overtime, to lead the Montreal Canadiens to a 4-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 1, per Pierre LeBrun. The win gives Montreal a 1-0 lead in the opening round of the NHL playoffs after a tightly contested series opener.
The 20-year-old forward, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, secured the victory in the extra frame after the two teams ended regulation tied at three goals apiece. Slafkovsky entered the postseason following a breakout regular season for the Canadiens, where he appeared in all 82 games and tallied 20 goals and 30 assists for 50 points. This performance made him the first player in franchise history to record a 50-point season before turning 21.
The game featured a back-and-forth battle between the Atlantic Division rivals. The Lightning, led by veteran stars Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos, were unable to contain the Montreal offense in the closing moments of the game. The Canadiens now prepare for Game 2 as they look to maintain their advantage in the best-of-seven series.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting
