3 Straight Wins, Hildeby's Debut & Carlson's Impact | Lightning Power Lunch - October 9, 2026

The Tampa Bay Lightning wrapped up a successful homestand with their third straight victory, a 3-2 win over the Minnesota Wild, and on today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli break down one of the team's most impressive wins of the young season. From Dennis Hildeby's stellar first start to the Lightning's emerging defensive depth, the guys discuss why Tampa Bay is finding ways to win even when their biggest offensive stars haven't fully hit their stride yet.

Dave and Greg analyze Minnesota's strong start, how the Lightning flipped the game with two quick first-period goals, and why John Carlson's first power-play goal as a Bolt could be a sign of things to come. They also discuss Hildeby's poised performance, Tampa Bay's improving special teams, and how the team continues to lock down opponents defensively.

Plus, a closer look at Max Crozier's growing role, why the coaching staff continues to trust him in critical situations, the challenge of fitting Dominic James back into the lineup, and how Conor Geekie continues to prove he belongs at the NHL level.

Topics

Lightning beat Minnesota 3-2 for their third straight win

Minnesota's fast start and how Tampa Bay weathered the storm

Sorelli's opening goal and the importance of sustained offensive-zone pressure

John Carlson's goal and the Lightning's power play breakthrough

Why the Lightning controlled much of the game despite the close score

Dennis Hildeby's impressive first start and key third-period saves

Minnesota's top performers and the challenge of facing Joel Eriksson Ek and Quinn Hughes

The Max Crozier discussion: Why does the coaching staff trust him so much?