The Lightning's October results underscored the importance of their stars carrying the load until the roster fully settled
In the end, it wasn’t a horrible month for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Sure, six games in that wasn’t the way things were tracking, but a strong finish to the month helped pull the Lightning back into the middle of the pack. And all of that without Nick Paul. Things can only get better once he’s back, right?
The question that they’ll be answering for the next few months is if their 1-4-2 start put them in a spot that they can’t overcome. Their first win in November vaulted them back into a playoff spot and just four points behind the Montreal Canadiens for the top spot. The fact that no one in the Atlantic took off in October has kept things fairly close as last place Buffalo has 13 points as of November 3rd.
Here is how October broke down for them as compared to last year where they got off to a 7-3-0 start.
| 5v5 Stats and league-wide rankings | 2024-25 (7-3-0) | 2025-26 (5-4-2) |
| GF/60 | 3.93 (2nd) | 2.48 (18th) |
| xGF/60 | 2.49 (16th) | 3.10 (4th) |
| GA/60 | 2.16 (8th) | 2.48 (15th) |
| XGA/60 | 2.43 (12th) | 2.29 (7th) |
| SCF/60 | 29.04 (7th) | 28.17 (8th) |
| SCA/60 | 27.78 (20th) | 22.40 (2nd) |
| HDCF/60 | 12.43 (9th) | 11.32 (16th) |
| HDCA/60 | 12.43 (27th) | 8.84 (2nd) |
| Save Percentage | .932 (6th) | .907 (15th) |
| Shooting Percentage | 13.7% (3rd) | 9.33% (19th) |
The 5v5 stats all trended in the right direction as the month went along, which helped them since the power play, usually a staple in their game, was inconsistent at best. They finished the month 15.4% 6-for-39), one of their lowest months over the past few seasons. The percentage is even worse considering they scored on their first two opportunities of the month.
Normally, when fans scream “shoot the puck” it’s annoying and ill-timed. For the Lightning, it might be sage advice. They ranked 29th in the league with 43.31 SF/60 with the extra skater despite being 19th in scoring chances at 57.74. So they’re getting in good spots, but electing to pass the puck instead of putting it on net. They’ve made a few adjustments in their last game with Nikita Kucherov flipping over to the left side of the ice. Despite his dislike of playing off his normal side, it did energize things last year when they tried it, so maybe it will have the same effect this season.
On the other side of the special teams coin, well, no notes. They were fourth at 89.2% while being tied at 18th with 37 times short-handed in the month. That number, especially the careless penalties, could be a little better.
Individually, Jake Guentzel is your first month MVP as he had 8 5v5 points (4 goals, 4 assists) to lead the team. He was by far the most consistent player on the roster picking up points in seven of the eleven games (when you include his power play production). With Brayden Point and Nikita Kucherov scuffling (by their standards) Guentzel’s production as well as the six 5v5 points by Anthony Cirelli helped keep the team in contention.
Point’s lack of production is something to keep an eye on. While he did have a goal and five assists he wasn’t generating the usual high-danger chances we are used to seeing from him. Natural Stat Trick credited him with just four in the month, which puts him behind Yanni Gourde (six) and Pontus Holmberg (eight) who were on the ice for fewer minutes than Point.
The Lightning will need him to start generating chances in order to get that top line, which was so dangerous last year, going. Coach Cooper has already broken them up a little, moving Brandon Hagel up to play with Point and Kucherov at times, and there was at least one game where Kucherov and Point were broken up. Once the line does heat up, the entire team’s offensive production will ramp up quickly.
It’s unlikely that anyone had Jonas Johansson posting a better save percentage than Andrei Vasilevskiy in the month of October, yet that’s what happened as JoJo posted a .913 SV% to Vasy’s .899. That being said, Vasilevskiy rounded into form as the month went on. After posting negative goals-saved-above-expected in his first two starts, he was in the positive the rest of the way with the 2.28 GSAx he posted against Dallas as his high-water mark.
The lack of action he saw in the pre-season likely had something to do with that, but the team’s improved play in front of him as the month went along was a big factor as well. After facing 28 or more shots in each of his first four starts, he hasn’t faced more than 25 in any of his last four.
Roster-wise there was a little movement. They started without Zemgus Girgensons and Nick Paul. Kucherov missed a few games with an illness, and Max Crozier was out with an injury. They sent Mitchell Chaffee and Conor Geekie to Syracuse after the duo struggled to make an impact. While Dominic James has yet to record a point, he has injected some much needed speed in the bottom-six. Charle-Edouard D’Astous has done the same for the defense.
The return of Girgensons has given them a fourth line (with Yanni Gourde and Pontus Holmberg) that has been able to tilt the ice while being a tough line to play against. In the four games they’ve been together they’ve allowed just one goal while being on the ice for two. The team has a 56.90% edge in shot attempts and a 51.61% edge in scoring chances. If they can battle other teams to a draw, that’s a win for the Lightning, especially considering how much that line struggled last year.
The Lightning didn’t have a great month, and they definitely have room for improvement, but they never lost confidence in their system. It’s going to be a dogfight in the Atlantic Division this season and there are no teams that they can take the night off against and expect to beat.
With their schedule a little less wonky (only two back-to-backs and they are spread out by almost two weeks) and a healthier roster, the Lightning should be in good shape to make a run to the top of the standings if they can continue the effort they’ve put in over the last two weeks. One of the small drawbacks is that they only have two games against divisional foes, so moving up the standings could be a little tougher, but if they win the games on the schedule, they should be okay.
BREAKING: Colts Legend Peyton Manning Reportedly Battling Cancer — The NFL World Rallies Behind a True Warrior...
The NFL world was shaken today as multiple reports confirmed that Peyton Manning, the Indianapolis Colts legend and one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, is battling cancer.
The news broke early this morning through family representatives and team sources close to the Manning household — sparking an outpouring of emotion, support, and reflection across the sports world.
Manning, 49, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in football history. His leadership, football IQ, and ability to perform under pressure not only cemented his place among the all-time greats but also inspired generations of athletes who came after him.
And now, the same strength that defined his career is being called upon once again — not on the field, but in the fight of his life.
A Hero Facing a New Battle
According to early reports from The Indianapolis Star and NFL Network, Manning was diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer several weeks ago and has begun undergoing treatment at a medical facility in Indianapolis.
While the family has not yet disclosed the specific type or stage of his illness, those close to Manning describe him as being “optimistic, focused, and fighting with the same intensity he once brought to the field.”
“He’s a fighter,” said a family friend. “Peyton’s always been a warrior — that’s who he is. This is just another opponent, and he’s already game-planning how to beat it.”
The Indianapolis Colts organization released an official statement shortly after the news broke, expressing full support for their former quarterback and Super Bowl champion:
“Peyton Manning is and always will be the heart of this franchise. His courage and leadership have inspired generations of players and fans alike. The entire Colts family stands with him and his loved ones during this time.”
A Legacy Built on Breaking Barriers
Peyton Manning’s journey is nothing short of legendary.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Manning rose from a football dynasty to become one of the most impactful quarterbacks in NFL history. Drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 1998, he quickly became the face of the franchise, leading them to two Super Bowl appearances and one Super Bowl victory.
In Super Bowl XLI (2007), Manning delivered one of his finest performances, throwing for 247 yards and one touchdown, leading the Colts to a 29–17 victory over the Chicago Bears.
That night, Manning not only secured the franchise’s first Super Bowl in 36 years — he cemented his legacy as one of the most prolific and talented quarterbacks to ever play the game, inspiring future stars like Tom Brady, Andrew Luck, and Patrick Mahomes.
“Without Peyton, there is no me,” Luck said in a 2020 interview. “He showed the world that leadership and intelligence were the true markers of greatness.”
Now, the same league that once admired his skill is standing behind him in unison.
The NFL Reacts — “We’re All with You, Peyton.”
As the news spread, players, coaches, and fans across the NFL took to social media to send prayers, love, and encouragement to the Colts legend.
Tom Brady wrote on X:
“Peyton Manning paved the way for so many of us. Wishing strength and healing to a true legend. We’re all with you, Peyton.”
Andrew Luck added:
“Praying for Peyton Manning — a champion, a leader, and a symbol of perseverance. Once a legend, always a legend.”
Colts owner Jim Irsay also released a heartfelt statement:
“Peyton represents the soul of this franchise. He didn’t just win games — he changed the culture of football. We are with him every step of the way.”
Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell weighed in, saying:
“Peyton Manning’s legacy changed the landscape of our league. His leadership continues to inspire. We wish him strength in his fight and thank him for his enduring impact.”
The Colts Community Responds
In Indianapolis, the impact of Manning’s diagnosis hit especially hard. For many fans, he isn’t just a player — he’s a symbol of pride, success, and dedication.
At Lucas Oil Stadium, fans left flowers, jerseys, and handwritten messages near a mural honoring his Super Bowl victory. One note read:
“You gave us history, now we give you hope.”
Current Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, who has frequently cited Manning as one of his greatest inspirations, shared an emotional message online:
“He paved the way for us to be great. He showed what belief, hard work, and leadership can do. We’re praying for you, Mr. Manning — always.”
Richardson’s words struck a chord across social media, reminding fans of the deep connection between generations of Colts quarterbacks — and the legacy that began with Peyton Manning.
A Legacy of Leadership Beyond Football
Even after his playing career ended, Manning continued to serve the game he loved.
He transitioned into philanthropy, becoming a powerful voice for children’s causes and cancer research — the very fight he is now facing. Manning has worked with numerous charities through his foundation, focusing on improving the lives of young people and families in need.
Throughout his post-retirement career, Manning was known for his humility and mentorship. He often reminded players that football was only part of life — that purpose and impact mattered most.
“Football is what I did,” Manning once said. “But what I wanted to be remembered for is how I helped others believe in themselves.”
Now, that same strength and wisdom are guiding him through his toughest challenge yet.
Fans and Players Plan Tribute
Reports suggest that both the Colts and the NFL Players Association are planning a series of tributes for Manning in the coming weeks. These could include pregame moments of silence, custom jersey patches, and awareness campaigns for cancer research — causes Manning has supported throughout his life.
Colts Head Coach Shane Steichen told reporters that the team plans to dedicate its upcoming home game to Manning:
“Peyton’s name is etched into this team’s DNA. Everything we do — every snap, every drive — carries his spirit. We’ll play for him.”
Why Peyton Manning Still Matters
Peyton Manning’s story isn’t just about football. It’s about leadership, perseverance, and proving that greatness is earned — not given.
In a league once reluctant to trust rookies, Manning stood tall — not with arrogance, but with intelligence, dedication, and grace under pressure. He didn’t shout his worth; he showed it, one victory at a time.
Today, that same courage is what fans, players, and the entire football community are holding onto.
“He fought for greatness,” said NFL analyst Stephen A. Smith. “Now we fight with him — for his recovery, for his legacy, and for everything he stood for.”
The Road Ahead
While Peyton Manning has chosen to keep his treatment private for now, family sources say he is surrounded by close loved ones, former teammates, and friends.
He continues to receive daily messages from across the sports world — from the NFL community to college football programs and even international fans.
“Peyton has always believed in faith over fear,” said a family spokesperson. “He’s facing this battle the same way he faced every challenge — head-on, with hope.”
