Canadiens @ Lightning Game 2: Thread, lines, and how to watch The Montreal Canadiens look to build on their Game 1 overtime victory as they face the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference First Round. With the series tied 1-0 in Montreal’s favor, both teams enter Tuesday’s matchup seeking momentum in a best-of-seven showdown. Montreal aims to become the first team since 2021 to take a 2-0 series lead in the playoffs, a feat they last achieved when sweeping the Winnipeg Jets in the second round that year. The Canadiens hold an all-time .656 winning percentage in Game 2 situations (82-43), second only to the Columbus Blue Jackets in NHL history. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, looks to reverse two troubling trends: they are 0-5 in Game 2 dating back to the 2022 Eastern Conference Final and have won just two of their last 12 home playoff games. After dropping Game 1 in overtime, the Lightning know a strong response is needed at home to avoid falling behind 0-2 in the series. The first period of Game 2 ended in a 1-1 tie, with Brandon Hagel giving Tampa Bay an early lead before Lane Hutson answered for Montreal on the power play. Physical play dominated the opening frame, featuring multiple scrums and a fight between Hagel and Josh Anderson. Yanni Gourde entered the penalty box to start the second period after receiving his third roughing penalty of the game. Montreal will rely on goaltender Jakub Dobes, who stopped five of six shots in the first period, while Tampa Bay turns to Andrei Vasilevskiy, who turned away nine of ten shots faced. Special teams played a role early, with Montreal capitalizing on a power-play opportunity after Corey Perry drew a double-minor for roughing. For viewers, the game airs nationally on ESPN2, with regional coverage available through SN, TVAS, and CBC. Streaming options include The Spot and ESPN’s digital platforms. Faceoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET from Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. As the series shifts to Tampa, both clubs know the stakes are high. Montreal seeks to seize early control, while Tampa Bay fights to protect its home ice and extend its postseason life. The battle for momentum continues in what promises to be another tightly contested playoff encounter.
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