TAMPA, FL (SNN-TV) – Despite the Tampa Bay Lightning’s best efforts, the Colorado Avalanche have won the 2022 Stanley Cup.
The Avs completed the run, defeating the two-time reigning champion Lightning in six games…clinching game six by a nail-biting score of 2-1.
The victory ends Tampa’s quest for a three-peat…something that hasn’t happened in the NHL since the New York Islanders accomplished the feat in the 80’s.
With the playoffs included, the Avs tied a league record for games won in a season, with 72, capping it off in the most rewarding way possible.
Cale Makar received the MVP honors, hoisting the Conn-Smythe trophy, as Colorado clinched their third Stanley Cup title and first since 2001.
Lightning Head Coach Jon Cooper spoke postgame about Tampa’s successful season.
“You remember the teams you win with regardless of the league you’re coaching in, you’ll always remember those teams. You don’t remember as much the ones you don’t win with but I will always remember this team.”
The Lightning enter the offseason with a handful of free agents, including clutch winger Ondrej Palat, trade deadline pickup Nick Paul and steady defenseman Jan Rutta. But, the team’s core is under contract for next season.
