Lightning and Canadiens Set to Play Game Seven
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Tampa, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Lightning forced a decisive Game 7 in the Eastern Conference first round after Gage Goncalves scored an overtime winner in Friday's Game 6 at Montreal's Bell Centre, sending the series back to Benchmark International Arena on Sunday at 6 p.m. ET for the winner-take-all contest.
Tampa's coach Jon Cooper told players they had only 'pushed a game' and reminded them the team must still win to advance; the series has featured six one-goal games, four overtimes and 14 goals apiece, and a loss would mark Tampa's fourth consecutive first-round exit while a win advances them to the second round.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 2013 — Jon Cooper hired as Tampa Bay Lightning head coach, beginning his Game 7 tenure.
- 2. 2021–2022 — Lightning won key Game 7s, including 2021 conference finals and 2022 first round.
- 3. Early series (opening round) — Montreal and Tampa Bay split games with narrow margins and multiple overtimes.
- 4. Friday — Gage Goncalves scores in overtime at Bell Centre to extend the series to Game 7.
- 5. Sunday — Game 7 scheduled at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa at 6 p.m. ET; winner advances.
Why it matters
This game is a nail-biter for Lightning fans. A win means breaking a streak of first-round exits. A loss? More disappointment. If you're a fan, it's time to rally. Show your support. Wear your jersey. Tune in at 6 p.m. ET on Sunday.
Sources
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