The Tampa Bay Lightning began the 2011-12 National Hockey League season in style, scoring three goals in the third period on their way to a 5-1 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes in the season opener for both teams.
Veterans Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier got the Lightning on the board in the second period, with Steven Stamkos assisting on both goals. Tampa scored twice in a ten second span in the third period, via a Steve Downie power play goal and Adam Hall's first goal of the season. Ryan Malone finished off the evening's scoring with a goal at the 17 minute mark of the third period.
Dwayne Roloson was stellar in goal for Tampa, stopping 32 of the 33 shots he faced. The Lightning were two of six on the power play, while holding the Hurricanes scoreless in their five power play chances
Jeff Skinner scored the lone goal for Carolina. Hurricanes netminder Cam Ward allowed five of the 34 shots he faced to light the lamp, a rough start for a season opener.
The Lightning will next take on the defending Stanley Cup Champion Boston Bruins Saturday night at TD Garden.
For more on the Carolina Hurricanes, head over to SB Nation's Cane Country blog. And as always visit Raw Charge for more on the Lightning.