Tampa - The homecoming couldn't have come out better for Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde.
Returning to the arena where Lalonde was part of a coaching staff that won Stanley Cups and just missed a third, and matching wits against friends Lightning coach Jon Cooper and assistant Jeff Blashill (who Lalonde replaced with the Wings), Lalonde earned early bragging rights.
The Wings won the first game Tuesday between the teams this season, 4-2.
Lalonde greeted many well-wishers and old friends after Tuesday's morning skate, and talked fondly of returning to Tampa.
"Good memories," Lalonde said.