Lightning Stage Improbable Comeback Against Bruins in Stadium Series

Goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy provides "game-changing moment" as Tampa Bay rallies from 4-goal deficit

Feb. 2, 2026 at 1:47am

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In a thrilling NHL Stadium Series matchup, the Tampa Bay Lightning staged an improbable comeback against the Boston Bruins, rallying from a 4-goal deficit to win 6-5 in a shootout. Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy was credited with a "game-changing moment" that sparked the Lightning's historic comeback, the largest in NHL outdoor game history.

Why it matters

The Lightning's comeback victory showcases the team's resilience and ability to overcome adversity, even in the high-stakes environment of an outdoor NHL game. The result will be remembered as one of the most thrilling moments of the 2026 Stadium Series and highlights the unpredictable nature of professional hockey.

The details

The Bruins jumped out to a 5-1 lead by the midway point of the second period, but the Lightning slowly chipped away at the deficit. Jake Guentzel scored the game-tying goal late in regulation to send the game to overtime, where he then netted the shootout winner to complete the comeback.

  • The Bruins took a 5-1 lead at the 8:18 mark of the second period.
  • The Lightning scored four unanswered goals to tie the game 5-5 by the end of regulation.
  • The game went to a shootout, where Jake Guentzel scored the winning goal for Tampa Bay.

The players

Andrei Vasilevskiy

The Tampa Bay Lightning's star goaltender, who was credited with a "game-changing moment" that sparked his team's historic comeback.

Jake Guentzel

The veteran Lightning forward who scored the game-tying goal late in regulation and then netted the shootout winner to complete the comeback.

Morgan Geekie

The Boston Bruins player who scored to give his team a 5-1 lead in the second period.

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What they’re saying

“That was one you'll definitely remember for the rest of your life.”

— Jake Guentzel

“For the first half of the game, they were all over us. So to win a game like this, it's unreal. So a big, big thanks to the guys for that.”

— Andrei Vasilevskiy, Goaltender

What’s next

The Lightning's historic comeback will be a major talking point leading up to the remainder of the 2026 NHL Stadium Series, with fans and analysts alike eager to see if Tampa Bay can maintain this level of play.

The takeaway

The Lightning's improbable victory over the Bruins in the Stadium Series showcases the team's resilience and ability to overcome adversity, even when facing a seemingly insurmountable deficit. This thrilling comeback will be remembered as one of the most exciting moments of the 2026 NHL outdoor game season.