Nikita Kucherov’s goal with 8.8 seconds left gave the Tampa Bay Lightning a 2-0 series lead Wednesday night at Rogers Place in Edmonton after they defeated the New York Islanders in Game 2 by a score of 2-1.

The Islanders missed opportunities were the story of the game, as they were 0-4 on the power-play, including 38 seconds on a 5-on-3 in the third period. In the first, the Islanders also had a five minute power-play after Alex Killorn hit Brock Nelson from behind, where they did not capitalize. New York controlled most of this game and the shot totals, where they had 28 shots on net compared to Tampa Bay’s 21.

Kucherov’s game winner was a one-timer off of a feed from Ryan McDonaugh. It capped off a flurry of late chances the Lightning had late in the game, as the Islanders struggled to get the puck out of the zone. A quick backhander from Yanni Gourde started the intense pressure from Tampa Bay and the puck ended up in the back of the net seconds later.

Alex Killorn was given a major penalty and a game misconduct, and Braden Point left the game in the second period with an injury. Even with the Lightning being down to nine forwards, they were still able to persevere and win the game.

It was a rough night for Brock Nelson, as he was getting roughed up the entire game. He went to the dark room after receiving a nasty hit, and Barclays Goodrow followed up with a cross check to the head later in the game

Matt Martin had the game’s opening goal 1:24 into the first period and a fight against Luke Schenn.

“It’s a tough way to lose,” Martin said. “We need results right now. We need to find a way to win hockey games. This one got away from us.”

With the Islanders down two games in the series, they are going to have to win the next game to avoid a potential sweep.

Game 3 between the Lightning and Islanders will take place at 8 pm Thursday night in Edmonton.

John Smark