SPORTS

Canadiens Shock Lightning With Overtime Victory In Tampa

PUBLISHED Apr 19, 2026, 10:30 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 100%

Sources: 11

TAMPA, Fla. The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-3 in overtime Sunday at Benchmark International Arena, with Juraj Slafkovsky scoring a hat trick and the overtime winner 1:22 into extra time. The game began at 5:45 p.m. and was broadcast on TNT, marking the start of the first-round series. The loss gives Montreal a 1-0 series lead and shifts early momentum toward the visitors; Tampa Bay’s playoff home struggles and recent overtime record drew attention after the defeat. Game 2 is scheduled for Tuesday night at Benchmark International Arena, where both teams will reassess strategies and line deployments ahead of the rematch.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Regular season concluded with both teams at 106 points.
Oddsmakers opened Tampa Bay as the betting favorite; totals set at 6 goals.
Game 1 played Sunday at Benchmark International Arena; Montreal won 4-3 in overtime.
Juraj Slafkovsky recorded a hat trick, including the overtime power-play goal.
Game 2 scheduled for Tuesday at Benchmark International Arena with Montreal leading series 1-0.

News Intelligence

If you're a hockey fan, this game was a thrill. Montreal's win shakes up the playoff picture. It's a reminder that in sports, the underdog can surprise. For Tampa Bay fans, it's a wake-up call. Watch Game 2 on Tuesday to see how the teams adjust.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11

Who Benefited

The Montreal Canadiens benefited from a 4-3 overtime victory, securing a 1-0 series lead, momentum, and a confidence boost heading into Tuesday's Game 2 at Benchmark International Arena.

Who Impacted

The Tampa Bay Lightning suffered a home-ice overtime loss that highlighted persistent postseason overtime and home struggles, increasing pressure on players and coaching staff before Game 2.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The Montreal Canadiens benefited from a 4-3 overtime victory, securing a 1-0 series lead, momentum, and a confidence boost heading into Tuesday's Game 2 at Benchmark International Arena.

Who Impacted

The Tampa Bay Lightning suffered a home-ice overtime loss that highlighted persistent postseason overtime and home struggles, increasing pressure on players and coaching staff before Game 2.