Lightning's Point returns for Game 1 of Stanley Cup Final

Tampa Bay Lightning star forward Brayden Point returned to the lineup for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday. He recorded one assist while playing just under 18 minutes in Tampa's 4-3 overtime loss.

Point hadn't played since departing Game 7 of the Lightning's first-round series against the Toronto Maple Leafs with a lower-body injury. He registered two goals, including the overtime winner in Game 6, and two assists in the opening-round matchup.

Point was instrumental to Tampa Bay's back-to-back Stanley Cup championships. He logged 56 points in 46 playoff games from 2020 to 2021 and his 28 goals in that same span lead the league by a wide margin: Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon is second with 17 goals, a feat he accomplished in just 25 contests.

Despite missing one of their most impactful players since May 14, the Lightning swept the Florida Panthers in the second round and overcame a slow start to take down the New York Rangers in six games.

Point seems to enjoy taking on the Avs. He has eight points in 10 career contests against Colorado, including two goals and one helper in two games this season.

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