Bolts extend series with Game 4 win: The Backcheck | Tampa Bay Lightning

Tampa Bay Lightning refuse to go down without a fight, beat Florida Panthers 6-3 in Game 4, led by Stamkos. #GoBolts

The Tampa Bay Lightning entered Saturday night's game against the Florida Panthers facing a 3-0 deficit in the Round One series. However, they were determined not to go down without a fight. With defenseman Mikhail Sergachev making a remarkable return to the lineup just 79 days after surgery on his left leg, the Bolts received a much-needed boost.

Sergachev's presence was felt immediately as he was greeted with thunderous applause from the crowd at AMALIE Arena. The energy in the building was palpable, and the Lightning capitalized on it by dominating the first period, scoring three goals to take a commanding lead.

Steven Stamkos opened the scoring on the power play, netting his fourth goal in as many games. Brandon Hagel then added a shorthanded goal to extend the lead to 2-0. Brayden Point further increased the lead to 3-0 with his second goal of the series.

Despite a pushback from the Panthers in the second period, the Lightning maintained their lead with another goal from Hagel. Florida managed to make it a one-goal game heading into the third period, but Stamkos came through once again with his second goal of the night to secure a 5-3 lead.

The Bolts sealed the victory with a power play goal from Nick Paul, making it 6-3 and forcing a Game 5. The team's leaders, including Hagel, Hedman, Kucherov, Point, and Stamkos, all contributed to the win with multi-point efforts.

Stamkos's performance was particularly impressive, as he extended his goal streak to four games and recorded his 100th career playoff point. Point and Hagel also had standout games, with Hagel registering his first career three-point playoff game.

The return of Sergachev added another dimension to the Lightning's lineup, and his impact was evident on the ice. The team will look to keep their season alive in Game 5 against the Panthers, with puck drop set for Monday night in Sunrise.

Overall, the Lightning's resilience and determination were on full display in Game 4, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the series. With key players stepping up when it mattered most, Tampa Bay proved that they are not ready to bow out just yet.

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