Dominic James Steals the Spotlight - Lightning’s Rookie Outshines Vegas Stars in Statement Win
The offense was rolling nothing but numbers last night as the Lightning swept the season series from Vegas.
Yeah, it’s almost an entire day late, but here is your 45-second recap of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s second win on their road swing through the mountain region of the United States. Coming off their loss to Avalanche on Tuesday, the Lightning had to play catch-up after spotting the Golden Knights a 2-0 lead in the first period. Goals from Gage Goncalves and Dominic James tied things up in the middle frame, and the Bolts scored four more times in the final frame to bring about the 6-3 final.
James picked up his first career point on Goncalves first goal, added his first NHL goal three minutes later, and added another assist on Brandon Hagel’s goal in the third period. Hagel continued his torrid stretch of scoring with a two-goal night. Hagel now has 11 points (6 goals, 5 assists) in his last 7 games. Nikita Kucherov notched his sixth and seventh goals of the season, both on the power play, and now has goals in seven straight goals against Vegas.
Andrei Vasilevsky won his fourth game in his last five starts with 29 saves on 32 shots.
Kucherov scores twice in third period
Nikita Kucherov scored a pair of third-period goals and added an assist on a late empty-netter as the Tampa Bay Lightning pulled away for a 6-3 win over the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday night.
Brandon Hagel also had two goals and an assist for the Lightning, while Gage Goncalves and Dominic James added goals. Andrei Vasilevskiy made 29 saves. James and Oliver Bjorkstrand also had a pair of assists each.
Ivan Barbashev had two goals and an assist for Vegas while Mitch Marner had a goal and two assists. Carl Lindbom stopped 21 shots for the Golden Knights.
The game was tied 2-2 after two periods but Kucherov scored his first 2:48 into the third to give the Lightning a 3-2 lead.
Marner tied it at 3-all less than a minute later but Hagel's goal 35 seconds after that gave Tampa Bay the lead for good. Kucherov got his second on the power play with 5:47 to play to make it 5-3 and Hagel scored into an empty net with less than a minute to play.
Barbashev scored two goals in the first to give Vegas a 2-0 lead after one, but Goncalves and James scored in the second to make 2-2 after two.
BREAKING NEWS: James Cook’s $8.6 Million Game-Changer: Transforming Lives of Homeless Youth in Buffalo!
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has once again proven that his impact extends far beyond the football field. In a heartfelt move that has captivated the sports world, Cook has committed $8.6 million to transform a house in Buffalo into a shelter dedicated to homeless youth. This groundbreaking gesture highlights Cook's commitment to creating lasting change in the community that has supported him throughout his career.
Cook’s initiative, which aims to provide a safe haven for homeless young people in Buffalo, is more than just about offering a roof over their heads. The shelter will include educational programs, job readiness training, mental health support, and life skills workshops to give these young people the tools they need to overcome their circumstances. "These kids are our future, and they deserve a chance at a better life," Cook said. "I want to give them the opportunity to thrive, to rebuild, and to dream again."
Buffalo, a city known for its passionate sports culture, hardworking community, and strong sense of resilience, also faces a serious homelessness crisis, particularly among youth who are often left without the support they need. Cook’s $8.6 million investment will not only renovate the shelter but also ensure that it’s equipped with resources to help the young residents regain stability and independence. Local organizations and leaders have already expressed their enthusiasm and support for Cook's vision, understanding the positive impact it will have on the city's most vulnerable.
This investment comes as part of Cook’s broader philanthropic efforts, which have focused on empowering youth, supporting underserved communities, and giving back to the city that raised him. Known for his humility and leadership both on and off the field, Cook’s off-field contributions are becoming as significant as his athletic achievements. "I feel incredibly fortunate to be in a position where I can make a difference in the lives of others," Cook shared in an interview. "If I can help even one person find their way, then I’ve done my part."
The Buffalo Bills organization has publicly expressed its pride in Cook’s charitable efforts. Bills head coach Sean McDermott praised the running back’s commitment, saying, “James is the type of player who leads by example. His impact on the field is undeniable, but his work in the community will leave a legacy that’s even more profound.”
As James Cook continues to make plays on the football field, his efforts off the field are redefining what it means to be a leader. With his $8.6 million investment into a shelter for homeless youth, Cook is showing that true greatness lies in giving back and uplifting those who need it the most. This initiative will undoubtedly change the lives of countless young people in Buffalo for years to come, and Cook’s legacy will continue to inspire others to make a difference.
