The Tampa Bay Lightning closed out the 2016-17 regular season with a 4-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. The Bolts won all four games against the Sabres this season, completing the first regular season sweep of the Sabres in franchise history.
The Lightning finished the 2016-17 season with a three-game winning streak. Since February 4th, Tampa Bay went 20-6-4, making a push for the postseason when everyone had counted them out already.
Impressive End to an Impressive Year
Lightning rookie, Brayden Point sure put his stamp on the last game of the season, giving fans something to look forward to in the future. Point recorded two goals in last night's contest against the Sabres, giving him 18 in his rookie season. His 18 goals are the fifth-most all-time by a Lightning rookie in a single season. Point finished the year with 40 total points in 68 games.
Over 300 Points
Victor Hedman finished his final game of the 2016-17 season with a goal and an assist, moving his career point total to 301. Hedman's primary assist on Point's first goal was his 56th assist of the season, a team best. He had more assists than any other NHL defenseman this season and ranked third overall in the NHL. Hedman's efforts this season certainly have to put him in the Norris Trophy conversation.
Plenty of Time to Reflect
After being picked by many experts as favorites to win the Stanley Cup, the Lightning fell short of making the 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs. There were a lot of factors that played into this and we will look at all of them in the next few posts. The Lightning will officially close up shop for the season after their exit interviews, which take place today at AMALIE Arena.
It has been a pleasure covering the Tampa Bay Lightning for you this season and I look forward to providing you with your Bolts fix throughout the offseason.