Backchecking the Bolts

Jason Linkes

Backchecking the Bolts is your cup of coffee to get you the latest on the Tampa Bay Lightning. We’re breaking down the Lightning’s most recent games and telling you what the box scores didn’t tell you. From tactical breakdowns to player impact, it’s time to look beyond the highlights with host Jason Linkes and the managing editor of Raw Charge (www.rawcharge.com) Justin Godfrey.

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www.youtube.com/@BackcheckingtheBolts

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21 episodes
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Avg 44 min
English

Episodes 21

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Tuesday · 34 min
Tampa Bay Lightning Kucherov Contract, Point vs. Hedman + Hellebuyck Wants a Trade
The Tampa Bay Lightning are heading toward training camp with some major questions, and on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding the Bolts and the NHL. What will the Lightning do with Nikita Kucherov’s next contract, and what does the future hold for Jonas Johansson? With training camp approaching, we discuss the contract situations Tampa Bay will have to address and what Kucherov could command on his next deal. We also debate one of the biggest questions facing the Lightning this season: Who does Tampa Bay need a bounce-back season from more — Brayden Point or Victor Hedman? Both are critical pieces of the Lightning core, but which player returning to top form would have the greater impact? Plus, a potentially massive NHL storyline: Connor Hellebuyck has requested a trade. What could that mean for the Winnipeg Jets, what kind of market could develop for one of the NHL’s premier goaltenders, and which teams could potentially get involved? Finally, with NHL expansion continuing to loom on the horizon, could expansion finally lead the league to rethink the Stanley Cup Playoff format? We discuss possible changes and whether the current wild-card system should survive an expanded NHL. On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts: Nikita Kucherov’s next contract — what’s his number? What happens with Jonas Johansson? Brayden Point vs. Victor Hedman: Who needs the bigger bounce-back season? Connor Hellebuyck requests a trade Could NHL expansion change the playoff format? If you’re a Tampa Bay Lightning fan or follow the NHL, subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for Lightning analysis, NHL news, rumors, trades, contracts and discussion that goes beyond the box score. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #NHL #TBLightning #TBL #NHLNews
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August 10 · 55 min
Syracuse Crunch 2025-26 Season Recap | Lukas Favale on Tampa Bay’s Top AHL Affiliate
What makes the Syracuse Crunch and Tampa Bay Lightning partnership one of the best in the AHL? We go behind the scenes with Lukas Favale, the voice of the Syracuse Crunch, to take a deep dive into the Crunch's 2025-26 season and the players who could be part of Tampa Bay's future. Lukas joins Backchecking the Bolts to recap Syracuse's season, discuss why the long-running Lightning–Crunch affiliation works so well, and identify some of the young players Lightning fans should keep an eye on. We also talk about one of the most entertaining features on the Crunch's social media: Walk and Talk, where Lukas catches up with Crunch players as they walk to the arena and gives fans a more personal look at the players behind the jerseys Follow Lukas Favale on X and Instagram @LukasFavale Do you want to watch the Walk & Talks? Go to the Syracuse Crunch Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/syracusecrunch Find out more information on the Syracuse Crunch at: www.syracusecrunch.com Watch their games on AHL TV at FloHockey Listen to the Crunch at www.espnsyracuse.com (ESPN 1200 AM or 97.7 PM) #TampaBayLightning #SyracuseCrunch #TBLightning #TBL #GoBolts #CrunchTime
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August 6 · 50 min
Why the NHL Wants Houston: Expansion, Obstacles & the lure of Hockey in Houston
The NHL continues to explore expansion opportunities—but could Houston become the league's 33rd franchise? In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes is joined by Matt Savage from the Mission Control: Houston Hockey Podcast to discuss one of hockey's hottest topics. 🏒 Topics include: Why Houston is considered a leading NHL expansion candidate Why the NHL values Houston as one of America's largest media markets The challenges of launching another professional sports franchise in an already crowded market Houston's hockey history and fan support What ownership and arena questions still need to be answered How Houston compares to other expansion candidates If you're interested in NHL expansion, Houston hockey, the future of the NHL, or the business of professional sports, this episode is packed with insight. Guest: Matt Savage – Mission Control: Houston Hockey Podcast Host: Jason Linkes Mission Control: Houston Hockey Podcast X: @MCHockeyPodcast Instagram: @MCHockeyPodcast YouTube: @MCHockeyPodcast #GoBolts #NHL #NHLExpansion #HoustonNHL #HoustonHockey #Hockey #NHLtoHouston #NHL33
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July 24 · 27 min
Are the Tampa Bay Lightning Better on Paper? | Vasilevskiy Concerns & Kucherov's Next Contract
Are the Tampa Bay Lightning actually better on paper heading into the new NHL season? On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we take an in-depth look at the Lightning's offseason roster changes and whether they've improved enough to contend for another Stanley Cup. We also tackle one of the biggest questions facing Tampa Bay: Could the Lightning survive a long-term injury to Andrei Vasilevskiy? How much of the team's success still depends on one of the NHL's elite goaltenders? Plus, we discuss the future of franchise superstar Nikita Kucherov. When his current contract expires, what would a hometown discount look like for the Bolts? Leave your thoughts in the comments: Are the Lightning better than they were when last season ended? #GoBolts #TBL #TBLightning #NHL #HockeyPodcast #TampaBayLightning
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July 20 · 1 hr
Victor Matheson Explains NHL Salary Caps, No State Income Tax & Arena Financing
How much of an advantage do NHL teams in Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Nevada, and other no state income tax states really have under the NHL salary cap? In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes sits down with renowned sports economist Victor Matheson, Professor of Economics at Holy Cross, to break down one of hockey's most debated topics. Does the salary cap truly create competitive balance, or do tax laws give certain franchises a significant edge? The conversation also explores many of the biggest business issues facing professional hockey, including: 🏒 Do no state income tax teams have a real salary cap advantage? 💰 The economics behind NHL arena financing and taxpayer-funded stadiums 📈 Why franchise values have skyrocketed in recent years 🏟️ Which cities could become future NHL relocation destinations 🌎 Expansion vs. relocation: What's next for the NHL? 📊 The biggest economic challenges the NHL will face over the next decade 💵 How salary caps influence competitive balance across professional sports Whether you're a hockey fan, sports business enthusiast, or simply interested in the economics behind professional sports, this episode provides an in-depth look at the financial forces shaping the NHL today and into the future. 🎙️ Guest: Victor Matheson – Sports Economist & Professor of Economics, College of the Holy Cross 👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Turn on Notifications for more interviews covering the Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL news, player analysis, salary cap discussions, and the business of hockey. #NHL #SalaryCap #VictorMatheson #SportsEconomics #TampaBayLightning #NHLBusiness #SportsBusiness
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July 8 · 34 min
Patrick Present Breaks Down John Carlson, Jeffrey Viel & the Leo Carlsson Offer Sheet
The Tampa Bay Lightning made two intriguing additions this offseason in John Carlson and Jeffrey Viel, but what should Lightning fans realistically expect? On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes is joined by Patrick Present, Team Editor and Reporter covering the Anaheim Ducks for The Hockey News, to break down both of Tampa Bay's newest players and discuss the biggest story of the NHL offseason—the Leo Carlsson offer sheet. Patrick Present's Social Media and Contacts: Instagram: patrickcpresent X: @PatrickCPresent Facebook: PatCPresent The Hockey News: https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/anaheim-ducks If you enjoy in-depth Tampa Bay Lightning coverage featuring reporters from around the NHL, be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS so you never miss an episode of Backchecking the Bolts. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LetsGoDucks #TBL #LeoCarlsson #AnaheimDucks #NHL #NHLFreeAgency
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July 3 · 35 min
Tampa Bay Lightning Free Agency Breakdown | Best & Worst Signings, Departures & Biggest NHL Moves
The Tampa Bay Lightning have been busy during NHL free agency, and we're breaking down everything you need to know on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. 🏒 In this episode: * Complete breakdown of the Lightning's free agent signings Which players left Tampa Bay and how those departures impact the roster * The biggest signings from around the NHL and which teams improved the most * What these moves mean for the Lightning heading into the 2026-27 NHL season Join the Backchecking the Bolts crew as they go beyond the headlines with analysis, opinions, and discussion on one of the busiest times of the NHL offseason. 📺 Listen & Watch 🎙️ YouTube: Backchecking the Bolts Follow us for more Tampa Bay Lightning coverage: 🐦 X: @Tampa_Bolts_Pod 📸 Instagram: @BackcheckingTheBolts 📘 Facebook: Backchecking the Bolts #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #NHL #NHLFreeAgency #Lightning #TBL
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June 26 · 38 min
NHL Trade Frenzy Before the Draft! Raddysh to Leafs, Tuch to Capitals & Byram Blockbuster Trade
On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, Jason and Justin break down the latest NHL Trade Frenzy as teams make major moves before the NHL Entry Draft. 🏒 Topics on this episode: ⚡ Darren Raddysh traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs How does Tampa Bay replace a key defenseman? Did the Lightning make the right move? 🦅 Alex Tuch traded to the Washington Capitals Washington adds size, scoring, and another veteran weapon Are the Capitals loading up for another playoff push? 🔥 Bowen Byram traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in a blockbuster deal Chicago sends a package including the #4 overall pick in the NHL Draft Did Buffalo make the right decision moving on from Byram? 🎙️ Plus, Jonah Ahrens from The Sabre Report Podcast joins the conversation with his reaction and analysis of the Byram trade from the Buffalo perspective. We also open up the Backchecking the Bolts Mailbag and answer YOUR questions from social media! 🌎 Finally, Jason and Justin discuss the NHL’s latest expansion possibilities: ⭐ Could the league return to Texas with a new team in Houston or Austin? ⭐ Would another Southern NHL market work? #GoBolts #TampaBayLightning #NHLTradeRumors #NHLDraft #NHLExpansion #NHL
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June 18 · 1 hr 24 min
Peter Taglianetti Interview: Tampa Bay Lightning Inaugural Team, Penguins Stanley Cups & NHL Stories
Former Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Peter Taglianetti joins Backchecking the Bolts to look back on an incredible hockey journey that stretched from college hockey greatness to the biggest stage in the NHL. Taglianetti was a member of the inaugural 1992-93 Tampa Bay Lightning team and shares stories about playing for an expansion franchise built by Phil Esposito, what the early days of Lightning hockey were really like, and how Tampa Bay began building its NHL identity. Before arriving in Tampa, Peter played at Providence College under legendary coach and Hockey Hall of Famer Lou Lamoriello, was drafted by the Winnipeg Jets, and credits former Norris Trophy winner Randy Carlyle as an important mentor during his early NHL career. Taglianetti also reflects on his championship years with the Pittsburgh Penguins, winning back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1991 and 1992 alongside some of hockey’s greatest players. Plus — hear the unbelievable story of Peter’s appearance in the famous 1993 Yokozuna Body Slam Challenge aboard the USS Intrepid, one of the most memorable crossover moments between the NHL and WWE. Topics Include: ⚡ Joining the first-ever Tampa Bay Lightning roster ⚡ Playing for Phil Esposito ⚡ Lessons from Lou Lamoriello at Providence College ⚡ Being mentored by Randy Carlyle with the Winnipeg Jets ⚡ Winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins ⚡ Mario Lemieux, championship teams & NHL memories ⚡ The 1993 Yokozuna Body Slam Challenge Subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for Tampa Bay Lightning interviews, NHL stories, analysis, and conversations that go beyond the box score. #GoBolts #TampaBayLightning #NHL #LetsGoPens #StanleyCup #WWE
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June 13 · 40 min
Can Tampa Bay Lightning Land Dylan Larkin? - 2025-26 Bolts What Ifs - Nick Paul on the move?
The Tampa Bay Lightning offseason rumors are heating up, and Backchecking the Bolts is breaking it all down! On this episode, Justin brings some big “What Ifs?” from the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2025-26. Jason and Justin discuss whether Nick Paul could become a trade candidate as the Lightning look at their roster, salary cap situation, and potential moves heading into the 2025-26 NHL season. We dive into the Dylan Larkin trade rumors and debate where Tampa Bay stacks up among possible landing spots for the Detroit Red Wings captain. #TBL #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #HockeyPodcast #TBLightning #StanleyCupPlayoffs
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June 6 · 1 hr
Lightning Prospect Watch: Sam O’Reilly & Jack Pridham’s Development in Kitchener | The Aud Pod Joins
On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we go north of the border for a deep dive into the future of the Tampa Bay Lightning organization as we are joined by Andrew Merrigan and Justin Born from The Aud Pod, covering the Kitchener Rangers. Andrew and Justin give us an inside look at two of Tampa Bay’s most exciting young prospects — Sam O’Reilly and Jack Pridham — after watching them up close during their season with the Rangers. A huge thank you to Andrew Merrigan and Justin Born of The Aud Pod for joining us and providing their firsthand insight into two players who could become important pieces of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s future. Subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for Tampa Bay Lightning interviews, prospect coverage, NHL Draft analysis, and everything Bolts hockey. Follow Backchecking the Bolts on the following platforms. RawCharge: www.rawcharge.com Twitter: Backchecking the Bolts - Podcast (@Tampa_Bolts_Pod) / X Instagram: (1) Instagram Facebook: Facebook email: backcheckingthebolts@yahoo.com Follow the Aud Pod on the following platforms: Instagram: Instagram YouTube: The AudPod - YouTube Facebook: Facebook #GoBolts #TampaBayLightning #OHL #KitchenerRangers #SamOReilly #JackPridham #NHLDraft #TBLightning
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June 1 · 42 min
Can the Lightning Reload? Stanley Cup Final Talk, Sam O’Reilly, Benjamin Rautiainen & Free Agency
The Stanley Cup Final is here, and on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding the battle for hockey’s ultimate prize! We’ll discuss: 🏆 Stanley Cup Final preview and predictions ⚡ What the Tampa Bay Lightning can learn from this year’s finalists ⚡ The future of the Bolts prospect pipeline ⭐ Sam O’Reilly’s potential impact in Tampa Bay ⭐ Benjamin Rautiainen’s breakout and NHL future 💰 Which NHL free agents could be available on July 1st and whether any make sense for the Lightning #tampabaylightning #GoBolts #stanleycupfinals #NHLPlayoffs #TBL #StanleyCup
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May 25 · 1 hr 6 min
Eric Perrin Interview From Undrafted to Stanley Cup Champion & Liiga Legend
Former Tampa Bay Lightning forward and 2004 Stanley Cup Champion Eric Perrin joins Backchecking the Bolts for an in-depth interview covering one of hockey’s most unique career journeys. Eric discusses his path from the University of Vermont to professional hockey after going undrafted, eventually earning his opportunity with the Lightning and becoming part of Tampa Bay’s historic 2004 Stanley Cup championship team. The conversation also dives into his remarkable European hockey career, including his time in Finland’s Liiga, where he became the highest-scoring foreign-born player in league history. Eric shares stories from his NHL career, adapting to European hockey, playing overseas, and what it took to build a long and successful professional career. If you enjoy Tampa Bay Lightning history, NHL interviews, hockey podcasts, and stories of perseverance in professional hockey, this episode is for you. For more information on the Dayton Ice Arena and the programs offered, please visit: https://daytonaicearena.com/ To follow the University of Vermont men's hockey program, click the link below: https://uvmathletics.com/sports/mens-ice-hockey #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #StanleyCup #TBLightning #Liiga #GoCatsGo #UVM
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May 18 · 32 min
Tampa Bay Lightning Offseason Update | Coyle Signing, Prospects + Habs-Sabres Game 7
The latest episode of Backchecking the Bolts is here! We break down everything surrounding the Tampa Bay Lightning as the offseason heats up. 🔥 Topics covered in this episode: 🏒 How the Charlie Coyle signing could reshape the NHL free agent market ⭐ Deep dive into Lightning prospects: Connor Geekie, Sam O'Reilly, and Benjamin Rautiainen ⚡ What Tampa Bay’s roster looks like heading into NHL Free Agency 🥅 Our thoughts on the intense Montreal vs Buffalo Game 7 matchup Which prospects could make an impact sooner than expected? And what does the Coyle deal mean for the rest of the NHL market? #TampaBayLightning #NHL #GoBolts #TBL #TBLightning #StanleyCUpPlayoffs
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May 11 · 49 min
Buffalo Sabres Surprise the NHL? Jonah Ahrens Breaks Down Buffalo vs. Montreal + NHL Awards
The latest episode of Backchecking the Bolts is here! On this episode, we break down the finalists for the NHL’s biggest awards, including the Hart Memorial Trophy, Vezina Trophy, Norris Trophy, Calder Memorial Trophy, Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, and more. Then we're joined by Jonah Ahrens from The Sabres Report Podcast to break down the incredible season by the Buffalo Sabres, what fueled their turnaround, and how Buffalo matches up in their second-round playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens. Follow Jonah & The Sabres Report Podcast: YouTube: The Sabre Report - YouTube Facebook: Facebook X (Jonah Ahrens): Jonah Ahrens (@TSR_Jonah) / X #NHL #BuffaloSabres #LetsGoBuffalo #MontrealCanadiens #NHLAwards #StanleyCupPlayoffs #TampaBayLightning #GoHabsGo #GoBolts
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May 8 · 36 min
Tampa Bay Lightning Eliminated - Canadiens Series Recap + Sabres Preview ft. Jared Book
The Tampa Bay Lightning’s playoff run comes to an end as we break down the full first-round series against the Montreal Canadiens on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. Joining the show is Jared Book from Habs Eyes on the Prize (www.https://www.habseyesontheprize.com/), who gives the Montreal perspective on what decided the series, the biggest turning points, standout performances, coaching decisions, and what went wrong for Tampa Bay. We also look ahead to the Montreal Canadiens vs Buffalo Sabres second-round playoff matchup, as Jared shares his thoughts on key storylines, matchups to watch, X-factors, and whether Montreal has what it takes to keep their Stanley Cup run alive. Subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for Lightning analysis, NHL playoff coverage, interviews, and hockey debate. Habs Eyes on the Prize: Facebook: (1) Facebook Instagram: (1) Instagram #TampaBayLightning #MontrealCanadiens #NHLPlayoffs #GoBolts #GoHabsGo #GoSabres #StanleyCupPlayoffs #Habs #TBL
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S1 · E38
May 4 · 34 min
Lightning Eliminated in Game 7 | Tampa Bay Falls 2-1 to Montreal + NHL Second Round Predictions
Relive the Tampa Bay Lightning’s heartbreaking season-ending Game 7 loss as Jason Linkes and Justin Godfrey break down the Bolts’ 2-1 defeat to the Montreal Canadiens in Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we analyze what went wrong for the Tampa Bay Lightning, key turning points from Game 7, standout performances, missed opportunities, and what this early playoff exit means for the future of the franchise. We also shift our focus to the NHL postseason and preview the second round matchups, as Jason Linkes and Justin Godfrey make their Stanley Cup Playoff predictions and discuss which teams have the best path to the Finals. 🏒 Topics in this episode: • Lightning vs Canadiens Game 7 recap • Biggest reasons Tampa Bay was eliminated • Key players and turning points • Offseason questions facing the Lightning • Second Round NHL Playoff predictions Subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for weekly NHL analysis, Tampa Bay Lightning news, playoff coverage, and offseason breakdowns. #GoBolts #TampaBayLightning #GoHabsGo #Habs #TBL #TBLightning #StanleyCupPlayoffs #NHL
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S1 · E37
May 2 · 36 min
Lightning Stay Alive! Tampa Bay Wins Game 6 in OT vs Montreal, Forces Game 7
Tampa stays alive! The Tampa Bay Lightning shut out the Montreal Canadiens 1-0 in overtime in Game 6, sending this playoff series to an epic Game 7 in Tampa. On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we recap the overtime winner, defensive masterclass, clutch saves, and biggest turning points from the game. We also break down the NHL Award finalists and take a look at the rest of the National Hockey League playoff bracket. Please like and subscribe to the Backchecking the Bolts YouTube channel: / @backcheckingthebolts For all of our social media outlets, use Linktree: https://linktr.ee/backcheckingthebolts #GoHabsGo #GoBolts #TBL #TampaBayLightning #MontrealCanadiens #Game7 #NHLPlayoffs
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S1 · E36
April 30 · 45 min
Lightning on the Brink After Game 5 Loss -Wesley Lawrence on Wild vs Stars
The Tampa Bay Lightning are on the brink. After a tough 3-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 5, the Lightning now trail the series 3-2 in this best-of-seven matchup. We break down what went wrong, missed opportunities, and what Tampa Bay needs to do to force a Game 7. We’re also joined by Wesley Lawrence from Defending Big D to dive into the Western Conference — including a full breakdown of the Minnesota Wild vs Dallas Stars series and key storylines across the West. ⚡ Lightning vs Canadiens Game 5 recap 🏒 What’s going wrong for Tampa Bay 🔥 Keys to Game 6 and staying alive ⭐ Wesley Lawrence joins the show 🌵 Wild vs Stars breakdown 📊 Western Conference playoff analysis 🎙 Backchecking the Bolts — Your home for Tampa Bay Lightning coverage #GoBolts #TBL #tampabaylightning #tblightning #NHLplayoffs #DallasStars #MinnesotaWild #GoHabsGo #MontrealCanadiens For ways to follow Wesley Lawrence & Defending Big D: Bleav podcast network: https://bleav.com/shows/stargazing-a-dallas-stars-podcast-defending-big-d/ Defendingbigd.com Bluesky - wes-lawrence.bsky.social (wes) - hitzicestat.bsky.social (mark, my co-host) - ketibbetts.bsky.social (kt, our producer) Twitter - @wesalawrence - @defendingbigd.com
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S1 · E35
April 27 · 31 min
Bolts Even the Series! Game 4 Breakdown - Crozier-Slafkovský Hit
On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the Tampa Bay Lightning’s gritty 3-2 Game 4 victory that evened the series at 2-2. We dive into key moments, standout performances, and what changed for Tampa. Plus, we analyze the controversial hit from Max Crozier on Juraj Slafkovský and what it could mean moving forward. Finally, we preview a pivotal Game 5 and what both teams need to do to take control of the series.
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