Tampa Bay Lightning star Brayden Point achieved the fifth hat-trick of his NHL career in a truly bizarre fashion during Thursday’s 5-4 loss to the Washington Capitals. Point’s third goal was awarded after Capitals goalie Charlie Lindgren inadvertently played the puck into his own net while attempting to clear it. Despite this peculiar moment, the game’s outcome wasn’t decided by the blunder, as Tom Wilson sealed the victory for the Capitals with a late power-play goal.
Lindgren’s Blunder and Redemption
Reflecting on the unusual own-goal, Lindgren admitted, “It was obviously the worst make I’ve probably ever made in terms of on ice … I don’t know what I was thinking.” However, Lindgren redeemed himself by playing a pivotal role in the Caps’ victory. He stopped every shot after the misstep, finishing with an impressive 25 saves and proving his resilience under pressure. His team’s support following the mistake highlighted the camaraderie that carried them to victory.
