Lightning Prepare for Showdown Against Blackhawks on Thursday

TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Lightning get ready to face off against the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday, October 23, at 6:45 p.m. ET at Benchmark International Arena. This matchup is the first of three consecutive home games for the Lightning.

The Lightning (1-3-2) will meet the Blackhawks (3-2-2) for the first time this season, with the teams set to play again on January 23 in Chicago. Tampa Bay holds a strong 36-17-9 all-time record against Chicago, including a solid 19-7-4 record on home ice.

Defenseman Victor Hedman, who is the franchise leader in points against the Blackhawks, has recorded 35 points in 32 career games versus Chicago. Forward Brayden Point and captain Steven Stamkos also have strong records against the Blackhawks, with 31 and 34 points, respectively.

The Lightning’s recent performance has included a tough stretch on the road, culminating in a four-game road trip where they earned one point. They hope to leverage their home advantage against Chicago and improve their standings.

Head coach Jon Cooper reflected on their recent games, stating, “Just bad kind of details on our track and it’s in the net. We thought a good third, we get a point out of this. It was unfortunate.”

In the previous games, the Lightning have seen contributions from both veteran players and newer faces. Forwards like Nikita Kucherov and Jake Guentzel are anticipated to make significant impacts against Chicago.

Fans can catch the game through ESPN+/Hulu and on local radio stations. The Lightning are also gearing up for their next home games against the Anaheim Ducks and the Vegas Golden Knights.

As Tampa Bay prepares for their matchup, they aim to return to winning form and build momentum for the rest of the season.