Tampa Bay Lightning knocked out by Montreal Canadiens in Game 7

The Tampa Bay Lightning were eliminated from the 2025‑26 NHL playoffs after a 2‑1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 7 of the first round. Montreal scored first on a deflection by J.J. Moser, added a second goal from Nick Suzuki, and secured the win when Alex Newhook redirected a rebound past goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy. The Lightning outshot the Canadiens 29‑9 but could not convert, despite a late power‑play chance.

The defeat marks the Lightning’s fourth consecutive first‑round exit. Rookie netminder Jakub Dobeš earned praise for his play throughout the series. In the post‑game locker room, Brayden Point said, “For sure not,” while head coach Jon Cooper lamented, “They gave everything they possibly could and fell short.” The loss leaves Tampa Bay facing a summer of roster evaluation and strategic adjustments.