Dustin Tokarski shines in debut but Tampa Bay Lightning fall to Washington Capitals in OT 3-2
Tampa Bay wanted to try something new and let Dustin Tokarski handle their net for his first debut in the National Hockey League (NHL). The young goaltender had a brilliant performance blocking 29 shots in regulation but fell on Alex Ovechkin’s game-winner
in overtime as Washington Capitals edged the Lightning, 3-2, Thursday night, March 8, 2012, at the sold-out Verizon Center.
Tokarski, a 22-year-old goalie, made two appearances back in the 2009-2010 regular season with Tampa Bay, but Thursday night’s game against Washington was his first ever since. With their numerous issues at the moment, Lightning might have found a potential
backup to their goaltending woes and could continue using him in the future.
Playing against a tough team was one thing but still performing top notch proved his ability to play under intense pressure.
"I feel real bad for him – first NHL game in a tough building," Lightning’s forward, Teddy Purcell, said. "I remember my first game and how nervous everyone is – especially for a goaltender with all the offensive power [the Capitals] have."
Winning this match was crucial for Washington’s survival as they now have 72 points and are very close to overtaking their South Eastern Conference with Florida Panthers having 74. Winnipeg Jets are also another team of concern for Capitals as they too are
quickly moving up in the ranks.
"It's a big win," Capitals coach, Dale Hunter, said. "Every game is like a playoff game right now. It was a playoff game out there. This is what usually happens in playoffs, it's a battle."
Keith Aucoin got the first goal of the night for Washington with less than three minutes remaining in the opening period.
Ryan Malone and Teddy Purcell added two straight in the second to take the lead on the power play advantages awarded to them consecutively with Dennis Wideman out for boarding and Jay Beagle called for holding.
Marcus Johansson fired off the equaliser for his 13th of the year with less than four minutes remaining in round-three, keeping Capitals alive for the overtime while Alex Ovechkin came out with the game-winner at 4:09 of OT to take the match.
Washington hopes to win their next matchup but going up against Boston Bruins might just keep them out of the South Eastern lead they have wanted when the two meet on Saturday.
Tampa Bay is also out of the playoff race at the moment but have a major advantage with the next seven at home, starting off with Carolina Hurricanes on the same day.
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