Lightning Narrowly Defeat Senators in First of Two-Game Series

Tampa Bay ends Ottawa's five-game winning streak with a 4-3 victory, as both teams grapple with injuries ahead of their rematch.

Brandon Hagel's third-period goal secured the Lightning's 4-3 win over the Senators, snapping Ottawa's five-game winning streak.
Tampa Bay's Andrei Vasilevskiy recorded 25 saves, while Ottawa's Linus Ullmark made 34 saves in his first start since December 22.
Both teams faced injuries during the game, with Ottawa's Shane Pinto and Tampa Bay's Nick Paul leaving in the first period and failing to return.
Thomas Chabot of the Senators achieved a franchise milestone, passing Chris Phillips for third-most assists by a defenseman in team history.
The teams are set for a rematch on Thursday in Tampa, with Ottawa aiming to maintain their playoff position in the competitive Atlantic Division.