Brandon Hagel Scores Twice, Lightning Rally From 2 Down to Stun Habs in Montreal

Brandon Hagel just put on a clinic. The Tampa Lightning were down 2-0 in the second period, staring down a loss in Montreal, and then Hagel flipped a switch. He scored his second goal of the game with 4:53 left in the third period to lift the Lightning to a 3-2 win over the Canadiens on Sunday night.

This wasn't some lucky bounce or a goalmouth scramble. Hagel was the difference maker when it mattered most, leading Tampa's comeback from a two-goal deficit. When the Lightning needed someone to step up and finish the job, Hagel answered. That's the kind of performance that swings momentum in a playoff series fast.

Lightning Even Things Up

Down 2-0 after 40 minutes of play, the Lightning had every reason to fold. Instead, they came back out in the third period and made the Habs pay for not putting the game away. Hagel's second goal was the exclamation point on a solid third-period effort, giving Tampa a crucial road win in Montreal and evening their series.

Staying hot in the playoffs is everything, and Hagel is doing exactly that. Multi-goal games from your best players in elimination hockey are how you steal games you have no business winning.

What's Next

The series is knotted up now, and the momentum has completely shifted. This is the kind of win that changes the entire complexion of a matchup, especially on enemy ice. The Lightning showed they're not going down without a fight, and Hagel showed he's the guy you want with the game on the line.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.