Lightning’s Vasilevskiy Battles Bruins’ Swayman in NHL Stadium Series Clash
In a remarkable display of intensity, the NHL Stadium Series featured a historic confrontation between goaltenders Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins. This marked the first-ever goalie fight in an outdoor NHL game, taking place at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday night during the 2026 season.
Historic Goalie Fight
The confrontation occurred midway through the second period, with the Bruins leading 5-2. Tensions escalated when Swayman, while on a penalty kill, made a crucial save. Lightning forward Brandon Hagel attempted to poke the puck past Swayman, leading the Bruins netminder to react defensively.
After the whistle, Swayman lunged at Hagel. This prompted Vasilevskiy to intervene, leading to a dramatic meeting at center ice where the two goalies squared off.
Fans and Players React
The fight electrified the crowd as fans at Raymond James Stadium cheered enthusiastically. Players from both teams rose from their benches, supporting their respective goaltenders during this exceptional moment.
- First-ever goalie fight in an outdoor NHL game.
- Fight occurred during the 2026 NHL Stadium Series.
- Vasilevskiy and Swayman both had their first career fights.
- Minor penalties issued to both goalies and players involved.
While opinions vary on who won the altercation, the spectacle highlighted the fierce rivalry between the Atlantic Division competitors. This match also marked the second instance within a month where a Florida-based goalie engaged in a fight, following Sergei Bobrovsky’s encounter with Alex Nedeljkovic.
Following the fight, the Lightning showed resilience, narrowing the gap to a one-goal deficit before the end of the second period. This match will undoubtedly be remembered for its extraordinary events and the unexpected thrill of a goalie fight.
