The Latest Breaking News from Brandon Hagel

CHICAGO — Opening their three-game road trip Tuesday night against the league’s worst team, the Lightning had plenty of opportunities to pull away from the Blackhawks at the United Center, but found themselves going into the final period of regulation still deadlocked at 1.

TAMPA, Fla. — Closing their six-game homestand Thursday night against a Blue Jackets squad with the fewest points in the Eastern Conference, the Lightning had to be careful not to be lulled into a letdown game.

The Lightning needed every minute of regulation to pull out a win on the final leg of their three-game West Coast road trip.

TAMPA, Fla. — Even Luciano Pavarotti had to occasionally clear his throat.

The Hawks’ recent rate of turnover on the ice, behind the bench, in the front office and beyond has been stunning. But for the most part, this was a mess that needed this kind of deep cleaning.

BRANDON, Fla. — Once the Lightning realized in the days leading up to free agency that they wouldn’t be able to retain forward Ondrej Palat and defenseman Jan Rutta, the team worked quickly to reshape its roster.

CHICAGO — The Chicago Blackhawks may have a better idea of their starting lineup for the 2025-26 season opener than for the Oct. 12 opener at the Colorado Avalanche.

Luke Richardson should enjoy the moment.

TAMPA, Fla. — They were among the very best in the NHL this season. Threats to score every night, every period, every shift.