There was a lot to like about the Lightning's overall performance. They forced turnovers and, as a result, owned a big possession advantage. Those first two goals came directly off forced turnovers. They created more scoring chances than the Sabres and were effectively at getting players at pucks to the Buffalo net. Their net front presence led to two more goals early in the second. Victor Hedman joined the rush and, as he moved the puck behind the net, drew the two Buffalo defensemen with him. That left the front of the net available for Anthony Cirelli and Brandon Hagel. The puck came to Hagel and he backhanded it in. Just over three minutes later, Ryan McDonagh (who returned to the lineup after missing eight games due to injury) stepped to the left circle and set up Nikita Kucherov at the back post for a one-timer into an open side of the net. The fifth goal occurred early in the third, when Ross Colton won a puck battle in the offensive zone and, moments later, went to the slot and finished a Steven Stamkos centering pass.
So the Lightning received goals from five different forwards and from all four forward lines. They also got a terrific outing from Elliott, who made 28 saves and recorded his first shutout as a member of the Lightning. He went through stretches without seeing much action, but then would have to contend with an isolated Buffalo chance. He was at his busiest during the final five minutes of the second period, when the Lightning's play dipped and the Sabres applied consistent pressure. But Elliott made seven saves during that segment and, as he did throughout the night, kept Buffalo off the board.
Balanced offense. Good team defense. Strong goaltending. It was a winning formula for the Lightning, who ended their 0-2-2 streak in the process.
Lightning Radio Three Stars of the Game (as selected by Phil Esposito):
1. Brian Elliott - Lightning. 28-save shutout.
2. Ryan McDonagh - Lightning. Assist.
3. Ondrej Palat - Lightning. Goal and assist.
