Things haven’t been easy for the Tampa Bay Lightning this season. Yet, Jon Cooper and his crew found ways to overcome all difficulties: injuries, a goal deficit, a lack of defensive discipline, and low production from the leaders.
It was the real deal in October and November. But right before the Christmas break, something shifted in the right direction. The Lightning defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 6-4 on Dec. 20, 2025. Since then, the team has consistently produced goals, battled hard in the corners, built walls on defense, and executed effectively. Darren Raddish found a new self, collecting 12 points in the last six games and 39 points in 38 contests. His plus/minus is also up to +18.
The Bolts have only four home games in January. One is already in the books. After a dominating 4-2 win over the Colorado Avalanche at home, the Lightning have started a five-game road trip in Philadelphia.
Nikita Kucherov is on fire with nine consecutive multi-point games. There is a strong correlation between his spectacular performance and the Lightning’s 10-game winning streak. Kucherov has 67 points in 40 games. A few months ago, the two-time Stanley Cup champion didn’t look like a strong contender for the Art Ross Trophy. He does now.
But it’s crucial to highlight the collective effort with everyone’s numbers up. The second win in Philadelphia (5-1) was Jon Cooper’s 600th of his NHL coaching career. A “fly in the ointment” is Brayden Point’s injury. Even with a slower-than-usual start and a previous injury, he is fifth in scoring on the team with 29 points (10 goals).
All streaks end sooner or later. The most important thing is that the Lightning show their passion and readiness to have a long season, including the playoffs. Another positive sign is that many Syracuse Crunch players have been called up and given a chance with the Lightning this season. It’s about experience, trust, determination, and the future.
The Bolts’ fans haven’t seen the team at Benchmark International Arena since Jan. 6. The Lightning will be back on home ice against the San Jose Sharks on Jan. 20.