On a defense-first 8-game winning streak, the Tampa Bay Lightning are the hottest team in the NHL

The Tampa Bay Lightning are currently riding an eight-game winning streak, making them the hottest team in the NHL, with a record of 35-20-4. Coach Jon Cooper emphasizes a defense-first approach, allowing the team to outscore opponents 34-13 in the last month. A significant factor in this success is goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy, who has a remarkable goals-against average of 1. 63 and a save percentage of . 945 during the streak.

This solid defensive play has limited scoring chances against Vasilevskiy, enabling players like Mitchell Chaffee, who has points in all eight games, and Nikita Kucherov, who is on a 10-game scoring streak, to thrive offensively. The Lightning's recent win against the Washington Capitals showcased their defensive strength, with captain Victor Hedman noting how the team’s commitment to defense has made it easier for Vasilevskiy. Their upcoming matchup against rival Florida is highly anticipated, as the Lightning aim to maintain their momentum. With the playoffs approaching, the Lightning’s combination of strong defense and offensive talent positions them as serious contenders for another championship run. As they continue to dominate the ice, fans are eager to see how far this impressive streak will take them.