Brayden Point Scores Hat Trick and Nikita Kucherov Amasses Five Points as Tampa Bay Lightning Overwhelm Rangers

Thursday, March 14th, 2024

Brayden Point was pivotal in the Tampa Bay Lightning's 6-3 win against the New York Rangers, netting three goals and setting up three others. Nikita Kucherov also played a crucial role, scoring once and assisting four times, helping the Lightning retain their lead in the Eastern Conference wild card race.

During a power-play, Point delivered an assist to Steven Stamkos, which broke the game's deadlock. He then scored two more goals and set up Kucherov for an empty-net goal, securing a six-point night that set a new record for the team.

Among active players, only Kucherov and Connor McDavid have achieved the milestone of having three seasons with at least 70 assists. The Rangers saw goals from Jack Roslovic and Artemi Panarin, and despite 22 saves from Igor Shesterkin, he faced his first defeat since January.

After leaving the ice with a potential facial injury, Mika Zibanejad made his comeback in the game. The match also served as a significant moment for referee Frederick L'Ecuyer, marking his 1,000th game officiated. Looking ahead, the Rangers are set to play against Pittsburgh on Saturday, while the Lightning will begin a five-game journey on the road, starting in Florida.

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