Lightning come back from break with 7-3 victory over Wild

Jan 18, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov (86) looks on against the Minnesota Wild during the third period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY SportsAnthony Cirelli had two goals, Nikita Kucherov notched three assists to reach 500 in his career, and Waltteri Merela scored his first NHL goal as the Tampa Bay Lightning turned a close game into a blowout with three third period goals to take down the Minnesota Wild 7-3. For the second consecutive game the Lightning went 3-for-3 on the power play.

Defense wasn’t necessarily at a premium, especially during the first two periods as both teams had gaffes that led to chances and…