Lightning Power Lunch

Lightning Power Lunch is your daily destination for everything Tampa Bay Lightning. Join Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli every weekday as they break down the latest news, analyze the biggest storylines, discuss key performances, and provide insider insight on the Bolts. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just looking to stay connected with the team, Lightning Power Lunch keeps you informed and up to date all season long.

  1. 31m ago

    Kucherov's Shooter Mentality, Faceoff Improvements & Western Road Trip | Lightning Power Lunch - October 19, 2026

    The Tampa Bay Lightning head west riding a 6-2 record, and on today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli break down the Lightning's 4-2 win over the Vancouver Canucks, discuss the team's recent improvements, and preview a challenging road swing beginning with the Vegas Golden Knights. The guys examine why the Lightning were able to overcome an early two-goal deficit against Vancouver, the impact of another outstanding opposing goaltending performance from Kevin Lankinen, and what Tampa Bay can clean up before facing some of the NHL's elite teams on the road. They also discuss improved faceoff results, stronger power-play production, and the continued effectiveness of the Zemgus Girgensons-Pontus Holmberg-Ilya Mikheyev line in difficult matchup assignments. Plus, a deep dive into Nikita Kucherov's recent shoot-first mentality, why the coaching staff made adjustments to the top power-play unit, how Dominic James continues to make a strong impression, and what to expect from a talented Vegas team that sits near the top of the NHL standings. Topics Discussed Breaking down the comeback win over Vancouver Why the Lightning never appeared rattled despite an early 2-0 deficit Another standout performance from an opposing goaltender Defensive-zone execution and puck management areas to improve The continued success of the Girgensons-Holmberg-Mikheyev line Pontus Holmberg's strong play and game-winning impact Dennis Hildeby's performance and growth Nikita Kucherov's recent shooting surge The Lightning's evolving power-play structure Charles-Édouard D'Astous on the top power-play unit John Carlson's role moving forward Dominic James' continued integration into the lineup Could James eventually find a home in the top six? Gage Goncalves' response after being scratched Lightning faceoff improvements and Pete Holland's involvement The importance of winning 50-50 puck battles Brayden Point's strong night in the faceoff circle How faceoff strategy impacts special teams success Previewing the road trip beginning in Vegas Why the Golden Knights remain one of the NHL's elite teams Ryan Craig's impact as Vegas head coach Mitch Marner, Jack Eichel and Mark Stone leading the Golden Knights Projected goaltending plans for the upcoming road trip ⚡ Subscribe for daily Tampa Bay Lightning coverage, game previews, postgame analysis, prospect updates, roster discussion, and exclusive interviews throughout the 2026-27 season. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LightningPowerLunch #NikitaKucherov #BraydenPoint #DominicJames #PontusHolmberg #IlyaMikheyev #JohnCarlson #VegasGoldenKnights #NHL #BoltsNation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  2. 3d ago

    Victor Hedman's OT Heroics, Dominic James' Impact & Are Power Play Concerns Overblown? | Lightning Power Lunch - October 16, 2026

    The Tampa Bay Lightning improved to 5-2 on the season with a thrilling 4-3 overtime win over the Seattle Kraken, and on today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli break down Victor Hedman's game-winning overtime goal, what it could mean for the captain's confidence moving forward, and why the victory wasn't as straightforward as the final score may suggest. The guys discuss the high-event nature of the game, standout performances from Andrei Vasilevskiy, Brandon Hagel, and Ilya Mikheyev, and why Seattle showed they're a legitimate playoff contender. They also examine the Lightning's struggles in the faceoff circle, the team's ongoing power-play questions despite generating quality chances, and how a few key moments ultimately swung the game in Tampa Bay's favor. Plus, the return of Dominic James provided an immediate boost to the lineup, Conor Geekie continues to show promise alongside James and Jeff Viel, and the guys answer listener questions on Sam O'Reilly, Gage Goncalves, the Lightning's scoring depth, faceoff concerns, and whether Nikita Kucherov should become more of a shooter on the power play. Topics Discussed Victor Hedman's overtime winner and its significance Could Hedman's goal be a confidence-building moment? Brandon Hagel scores twice in another strong performance Andrei Vasilevskiy's key saves keep the Lightning in the game Why Seattle looks like a legitimate playoff contender Dominic James' return and immediate impact Conor Geekie, Jeff Viel and the energy of the fourth line James' speed, hockey sense, and ability to elevate linemates The Lightning's struggles in the faceoff circle Anthony Cirelli's difficult faceoff assignments Power-play chances vs. power-play results Why Nikita Kucherov may need to shoot more often Breaking down the Lightning's 2-for-27 power play start Ilya Mikheyev's goal and Seattle's defensive breakdown Brandon Montour's injury impact on the Kraken Sam O'Reilly's development path in Syracuse Gage Goncalves and earning a larger role Have the Lightning struggled to develop goal scorers? Looking ahead to the matchup with Vancouver ⚡ Subscribe for daily Tampa Bay Lightning coverage, game previews, postgame analysis, prospect updates, roster discussion, and exclusive interviews throughout the 2026-27 season. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LightningPowerLunch #VictorHedman #BrandonHagel #DominicJames #ConorGeekie #NikitaKucherov #AndreiVasilevskiy #SamOReilly #GageGoncalves #NHL #BoltsNation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  3. 4d ago

    Dominic James Returns, New Lightning Lines & Power Play Questions | Lightning Power Lunch - October 15, 2026

    The Tampa Bay Lightning look to start a new winning streak tonight as they host the Seattle Kraken, and the biggest story heading into the game is the return of Dominic James to the lineup. On today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli discuss James' return from injury, the lineup changes that come with it, and what the Lightning hope to see from one of their fastest and most energetic young forwards. The guys break down Tampa Bay's revamped forward lines, including the reunion of Nikita Kucherov, Brandon Hagel, and Anthony Cirelli, while Jake Guentzel joins Brayden Point on a new-look top unit. They also discuss the continued use of 11 forwards and 7 defensemen, Emil Lilleberg returning to the lineup, and why Gage Goncalves will be a healthy scratch tonight. Later, Everett Fitzhugh, radio voice of the Seattle Kraken, joins the show to discuss Seattle's impressive road trip, balanced offensive attack, strong goaltending from Joey Daccord and Philipp Grubauer, the development of Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, and Kaapo Kakko, and why the Kraken believe they're ready to return to the playoffs. Plus, the guys discuss Conor Geekie's development, the Lightning's faceoff challenges, the ongoing power-play struggles, trade deadline flexibility, and another strong season from captain Victor Hedman despite a reduced special-teams workload. Topics Discussed Dominic James returns to the Lightning lineup Why Gage Goncalves is sitting tonight New forward lines featuring Kucherov, Hagel and Cirelli Jake Guentzel joining Brayden Point The continued 11-forward, 7-defenseman approach Emil Lilleberg back in the lineup Conor Geekie's development and role on Power Play 2 Lightning faceoff concerns and solutions Power-play struggles through the first six games Trade deadline cap flexibility and future roster moves Previewing Lightning vs. Kraken Everett Fitzhugh on Seattle's hot start Why the Kraken succeed with balanced scoring Jared McCann's importance to Seattle's offense The development of Matty Beniers, Shane Wright and Kaapo Kakko Seattle's goaltending tandem of Joey Daccord and Philipp Grubauer The Pacific Division playoff race Fan questions on lineup decisions, power-play adjustments, and more ⚡ Subscribe for daily Tampa Bay Lightning coverage, game previews, postgame reaction, roster analysis, prospect updates, and exclusive interviews all season long. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LightningPowerLunch #DominicJames #ConorGeekie #NikitaKucherov #JakeGuentzel #VictorHedman #GageGoncalves #SeattleKraken #EverettFitzhugh #NHL #BoltsNation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  4. 5d ago

    What Went Wrong as Win Streak Snapped, Power Play Questions & Dominic James Nearing Return | Lightning Power Lunch - October 14, 2026

    The Tampa Bay Lightning saw their four-game winning streak come to an end with a tough loss to the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. On today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Eric Erlendsson break down what went wrong, why the Rangers continue to present matchup problems for the Lightning, and whether the result was more about Tampa Bay's execution or New York's strong play. The guys discuss Jon Cooper's candid postgame assessment, the Rangers' relentless forecheck, faceoff dominance led by J.T. Miller, and why Tampa Bay struggled to establish any rhythm on the power play. They also examine whether the Lightning's power-play issues are a cause for concern, what role John Carlson plays in the unit's evolution, and whether lineup changes could be coming soon. Plus, a look at the expected return of Dominic James, the coaching staff's upcoming roster decisions, Conor Geekie's development, Brayden Point's search for his scoring touch, and why Zemgus Girgensons may have been Tampa Bay's best player in New York. The show wraps up with a preview of Thursday night's matchup against the Seattle Kraken and why a strong response is critical. Topics Discussed Lightning's four-game winning streak comes to an end Jon Cooper's reaction to the loss at Madison Square Garden Why the Rangers were better than the Lightning in all three zones J.T. Miller's dominance in the faceoff circle The impact of special teams on the game Breaking down the Lightning's power-play struggles John Carlson's role on the top power-play unit Should Tampa Bay make power-play adjustments? Dominic James' expected return to the NHL roster 11 forwards, 7 defensemen vs. 12 forwards, 6 defensemen Emil Lilleberg's status and potential lineup changes Evaluating Conor Geekie's development through six games Brayden Point and the search for more offensive production Zemgus Girgensons' strong start to the season Gage Goncalves and internal competition for ice time Why the Rangers have exceeded expectations early this season Previewing Lightning vs. Kraken Fan questions and roster discussion ⚡ Subscribe for daily Tampa Bay Lightning coverage, game previews, postgame analysis, roster updates, prospect insight, and exclusive interviews throughout the 2026-27 season. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LightningPowerLunch #ConorGeekie #BraydenPoint #DominicJames #ZemgusGirgensons #JohnCarlson #AndreiVasilevskiy #SeattleKraken #NHL #BoltsNation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  5. 5d ago

    Lightning-Rangers Rematch, Chasing 5th Straight Win & Kucherov Nears History | Lightning Power Lunch - October 13, 2026

    The Tampa Bay Lightning look to extend their winning streak to five games tonight as they face the New York Rangers for the second time this season. On today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli preview the matchup, discuss the latest lineup news, and examine how much the Lightning have evolved since their season-opening loss at Madison Square Garden. The guys break down the Rangers' goaltending situation with Igor Shesterkin sidelined, why Dylan Garand has impressed in limited NHL action, and what challenges New York still presents despite key injuries. They also discuss lineup updates involving Emil Lilleberg, Dominic James, and Jeff Viel, plus why the Lightning continue to find success with the 11-forward, 7-defenseman alignment. Plus, a deep dive into Nikita Kucherov's pursuit of the Lightning franchise scoring record, Jon Cooper's thoughts on Kucherov's hockey IQ, and an entertaining discussion comparing Kucherov's vision and playmaking ability to some of the greatest players in NHL history. Topics Discussed Lightning vs. Rangers preview and keys to the rematch Ryan McDonagh on Tampa Bay's improved play since Opening Night Rangers goaltending situation and Dylan Garand's NHL success Emil Lilleberg's recovery and expected return timeline Dominic James' status and when he could rejoin the lineup Jeff Viel returns to the lineup Why the Lightning continue using 11 forwards and 7 defensemen Rangers rookie prospect Cole Beaudoin and New York's young talent Nikita Kucherov closing in on the franchise points record Jon Cooper's comments on Kucherov's hockey IQ Wayne Gretzky's appreciation for Kucherov's game The value of the Mikheyev-Holmberg-Girgensons line Conor Geekie's continued growth and development Gage Goncalves' role in the top six John Carlson's impact on the power play J.J. Moser's strong start to the season Andrei Vasilevskiy climbing the NHL's all-time wins list Fan questions and game-night discussion ⚡ Subscribe for daily Tampa Bay Lightning coverage, game previews, postgame reaction, roster analysis, prospect updates, and exclusive interviews throughout the 2026-27 season. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LightningPowerLunch #NikitaKucherov #ConorGeekie #AndreiVasilevskiy #JohnCarlson #RyanMcDonagh #JJMoser #NewYorkRangers #NHL #BoltsNation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  6. Oct 12

    Lightning Win 4 Straight, Hagel's Hat Trick & Is Power Play Heating Up? | Lightning Power Lunch - October 12, 2026

    The Tampa Bay Lightning extended their winning streak to four games with a thrilling 5-3 road win over the New York Islanders, and on today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli break down everything that led to the victory. From Brandon Hagel's hat trick to another timely power-play goal and several game-saving stops from Andrei Vasilevskiy, the Bolts continue to build momentum early in the season. The guys discuss how the Lightning built another early two-goal lead, why the Islanders pushed back so effectively, and how Tampa Bay weathered its most sustained pressure of the four-game winning streak. They also examine Hagel's dominant performance, Jake Guentzel's two-goal night, and the growing signs that the Lightning power play may be finding its rhythm after goals in back-to-back games. Plus, thoughts on Max Crozier's role in the 11-forward, 7-defenseman alignment, the continued impact of the Zemgus Girgensons-Pontus Holmberg-Ilya Mikheyev line, the future of Dominic James, and why rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer looks destined to become a superstar for the Islanders. Topics & Timestamps Lightning win their fourth straight game and opening thoughts on the Islanders victory Brandon Hagel's hat trick and Jake Guentzel's two-goal performance Why Tampa Bay's stars carried the offense on Saturday Breaking down the Islanders' pushback and the blown 3-1 lead The importance of Guentzel's power-play goal and special teams progress Andrei Vasilevskiy's key third-period saves keep the game tied Brandon Hagel's game-winning goal and why shooting the puck matters Dominic James remains in Syracuse and what's next for his development Scott Sabourin's physical debut and his unique fighting style Matthew Schaefer's emergence and why the Islanders may have a future superstar Should the Lightning stick with 11 forwards and 7 defensemen? Max Crozier's usage, defensive depth and ice-time distribution Is the Lightning roster complete or does it still need another top-six winger? Why the Girgensons-Holmberg-Mikheyev line continues to be so effective Lightning identity, team habits and sustaining success over 84 games Looking ahead to the Rangers and the upcoming road trip ⚡ The Lightning are 4-1 and riding a four-game winning streak. Dave and Greg discuss why Tampa Bay is finding ways to win in different fashions, how the team's depth continues to pay dividends, and why there's still room for this group to get even better. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LightningPowerLunch #BrandonHagel #JakeGuentzel #AndreiVasilevskiy #MaxCrozier #DominicJames #MatthewSchaefer #NHL #BoltsNation #LightningRadio See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  7. Oct 9

    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? Crozier's team-leading even-strength ice time among defensemen Dominic James' impending return and what it means for the lineup Conor Geekie's continued growth and confidence at the NHL level Looking ahead to the Islanders and continuing the winning streak ⚡ The Lightning have won three straight games, they're getting strong goaltending, contributions throughout the lineup, and their defensive depth continues to impress. Dave and Greg discuss why Tampa Bay appears to be building momentum heading into a weekend road matchup with the New York Islanders. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LightningPowerLunch #DennisHildeby #ConorGeekie #MaxCrozier #JohnCarlson #VictorHedman #AnthonyCirelli #NHL #BoltsNation #LightningRadio See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  8. Oct 8

    Power Play Changes, Hildeby's First Start & Conor Geekie's Growing Confidence | Lightning Power Lunch - October 8, 2026

    The Tampa Bay Lightning wrap up their homestand tonight against the Minnesota Wild, and on today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli preview the matchup, discuss the latest lineup news, and break down the changes the coaching staff is considering for a power play still searching for its first goal of the season. Ed Encina joins the show to discuss Dennis Hildeby's first start as a member of the Lightning, why Tampa Bay is sticking with the 11-forward, 7-defenseman alignment, and what he's learned about Conor Geekie's tremendous growth and confidence heading into his third NHL season. Plus, a look at Victor Hedman's encouraging start, the impact of reducing his workload, and why the Lightning believe their defensive depth can be a major advantage all season long. The guys also dive into the potential power play adjustments involving John Carlson and Charles-Édouard D'Astous, discuss the emergence of the Ilya Mikheyev-Pontus Holmberg-Zemgus Girgensons line, and debate the future contract outlook for Nikita Kucherov. Topics Lightning vs. Wild preview and Minnesota's challenging scheduleDennis Hildeby gets his first start for Tampa BayDominic James remains out and lineup notesEd Encina joins the showHildeby's opportunity and long-term upsideWhy the Lightning continue using 11 forwards and 7 defensemenConor Geekie's growth, confidence and strong startVictor Hedman's improving play and adjusted roleHedman's physicality and impact on the team's identityPower play changes featuring John Carlson and Charles-Édouard D'AstousWhy the Lightning believe the power play is trending in the right directionMikheyev, Holmberg and Girgensons continue to impressAround the NHL: Slow starts and special teams strugglesNikita Kucherov contract discussion and salary cap implicationsCould Conor Geekie be headed for a breakout season?Is Jon Cooper's early-season messaging any different this year?Lightning defensive depth and D'Astous' futureWhy Hildeby's start comes at the perfect timeDoes the Lightning power play need a major overhaul?Final thoughts and Wild game preview ⚡ Subscribe for daily Tampa Bay Lightning coverage, game previews, postgame analysis, roster news, prospect updates, and exclusive interviews all season long. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LightningPowerLunch #ConorGeekie #DennisHildeby #VictorHedman #NikitaKucherov #JohnCarlson #EdEncina #MinnesotaWild #NHL #BoltsNation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

4.7
out of 5
80 Ratings

About

Lightning Power Lunch is your daily destination for everything Tampa Bay Lightning. Join Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli every weekday as they break down the latest news, analyze the biggest storylines, discuss key performances, and provide insider insight on the Bolts. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just looking to stay connected with the team, Lightning Power Lunch keeps you informed and up to date all season long.

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