The Tampa Bay Lightning needed all three of Tyler Johnson’s goals against the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday night.
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Johnson completed his hat trick with just over five minutes to play, giving Tampa Bay a two-goal advantage. Johnson’s tally proved to be the difference maker, as Carolina scored with 1:08 to play, cutting its deficit to 5-4, before the Lightning held on for the win.
Going for the trick – you're not beating @tjohnny09. 🎩🎩🎩 pic.twitter.com/SSFlG7zX4G
— NHL (@NHL) January 10, 2018
Johnson found his way on the scoresheet with 3:34 remaining in the first period, when he deflected a slap shot from Anton Stralman into the net to tie the score at 2-2.
Johnson also scored just under two minutes into the second period. His first shot was stopped by Carolina goalie Cam Ward but Johnson corralled the rebound and took advantage of the second chance.
There's absolutely NO quit in @tjohnny09's ability to score. #CARvsTBL pic.twitter.com/x0fTfgoy9J
— NHL (@NHL) January 10, 2018
The win moved Tampa Bay to 31-9-3 on the year, while Carolina fell to 19-15-8. Johnson now has 16 goals in 2017-18.