Tampa Bay Lightning: Three notes from preseason win against Nashville

The Tampa Bay Lightning returned to the ice once again last night and defeated the Nashville Predators 2-1 in overtime in the second preseason game of the exhibition slate for the Bolts.

Maxim Groshev had a powerplay goal, and Tyler Motte scored the winner in overtime as the Lightning only had a handful of main roster guys on the ice while the rest were prospects (as is the norm in preseason).

Three players did stand out for their play in the Music City.

Tampa Bay Lightning: Matt Tomkins has a big night in goal

We noted against Carolina that Huga Alnfelt did not have a good night, giving up five goals on just 24 shots. Tomkins has bounced back and forth between the AHL and Sweeden during his professional career, but was able to turn some heads last night in Nashville.

Tomkins stopped 30 of 31 shots and kept Nashville at bay despite their expected goals of 3.74 on the night.

His highlight came in the first period when he was able to make a cross-crease save on an in-close chance.

Austin Watson has a busy night

Austin Watson came over to Tampa on a professional tryout contract last month. The nine-year NHL veteran spent last year with Ottawa and is hoping to crack the main roster for the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Despite just 7:43 of on-ice time during 5 v 5 play (with another 4:28 on the penalty kill), Watson generated five even-strength shot attempts, third most on the team, and led the team in even-strength expected goals.

For those familiar with Watson’s game, seeing him drop the gloves wasn’t a surprise.

Don’t forget Tyler Motte can score

When we highlighted Tyler Motte last month after the Lightning signed him following the departure of Josh Archibald, we noted that Motte is the type of player that can be a streaky scorer.

He led all Lightning skaters last night with eight shot attempts, three of which were high-danger chances.

His winner in overtime showcased that capability when given opportunities.