As the Tampa Bay Lightning gear up for their pivotal Game 3 against the Montreal Canadiens, all eyes will be on Brandon Hagel, the gritty forward who has become a polarising figure in this Atlantic Division playoff series. Having previously captivated Canadiens fans during the 4 Nations Face-Off last year, Hagel is now preparing for a decidedly less warm welcome at the Bell Centre on Friday night, a venue known for its passionate crowd.
A Familiar Face with New Expectations
Last year, Hagel left a lasting impression at the Bell Centre, notably during a heated matchup against the United States. The 27-year-old from Saskatoon made headlines by dropping the gloves with American forward Matthew Tkachuk right from the puck drop. Lightning coach Jon Cooper expressed hope that Montreal fans might still hold a fondness for Hagel, but the player himself is ready for the intensity of the rivalry that awaits.
“This one’s not going to be the same,” Hagel remarked with a grin, acknowledging the shift in dynamics. “But I’m excited. What a building to play in. It doesn’t even matter that we’re on the away side. You’ve got to embrace an opportunity like that.”
Hagel’s Impact in the Series
In Game 2, Hagel’s performance was nothing short of electric. He played a pivotal role in the Lightning’s 3-2 overtime victory, contributing offensively with a goal and an assist while also engaging in a fight with Canadiens rookie Juraj Slafkovsky. The intensity of Hagel’s play has made him a central character in a series characterised by physicality.
“What can you say about Hags? The kid does everything, man,” said veteran winger Corey Perry. “He’s an emotional leader of our club, and damn, that was a hell of a fight.”
In a standout moment, Hagel taunted Slafkovsky after their bout, gesturing that the Slovak was “too small” for him. This display of bravado, combined with his scoring prowess, has only heightened the stakes as the Lightning and Canadiens continue their fierce playoff battle.
The Gordie Howe Hat Trick Hero
Hagel’s statistics speak volumes about his versatility on the ice. His goal in the first period marked his third of the playoffs, and his overall contributions made him the first player in Lightning history to record a Gordie Howe hat trick in the playoffs. Beyond scoring, he has also been instrumental in penalty killing and effectively neutralising Montreal’s top line, which features Slafkovsky, Nick Suzuki, and Cole Caufield, all of whom have struggled to find their rhythm.
“He’s unbelievable,” praised linemate Anthony Cirelli. “His emotion, what he does offensively, what he does defensively. He’s always in the right spots, the plays he makes. He can score goals. He’s really a guy that does everything for us.”
Overcoming Adversity
Hagel’s journey to the NHL is a testament to his resilience. He faced numerous setbacks, including being overlooked in the Western Hockey League draft and being cut by the Buffalo Sabres after being selected in the sixth round. His breakthrough with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2020 was a matter of perseverance, and his subsequent trade to the Lightning has only solidified his reputation as a crucial player.
As Game 3 approaches, Cooper encapsulated the shift in Hagel’s status: “He’s going to be the bad guy when a year ago he was beloved in that arena.”
Why it Matters
Brandon Hagel’s evolution from fan favourite to villain in the eyes of Canadiens supporters underscores the fierce competitiveness of playoff hockey. His ability to perform under pressure, combined with a willingness to engage physically and emotionally, makes him a key figure in this series. As the stakes rise, Hagel’s performance could very well dictate the outcome of the Lightning’s playoff journey, showcasing the intricate blend of skill and tenacity that defines the essence of hockey at this level.
