Axel Sandin Pellikka Scores First NHL Goal as Red Wings Defeat Lightning

Axel Sandin Pellikka, the 20-year-old Swedish defenseman, celebrated a significant milestone by scoring his first NHL goal in a thrilling game where the Detroit Red Wings beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 2-1. The goal, which put Detroit ahead 1-0 early in the game, marked a breakthrough for Sandin Pellikka, who had not scored in his first four NHL outings.

Despite the equalizer by Tampa’s Janis Moser, assisted by Victor Hedman in the third period, Detroit secured the win in overtime thanks to Dylan Larkin’s deciding goal. Sandin Pellikka expressed his excitement in a post-game interview with FanDuel Sports Network, calling the moment “the best feeling in the world” and enjoying the roaring fans and music at the arena. He described the achievement as “a dream come true,” highlighting the personal significance of the goal.

The victory adds momentum early in the NHL season for the Red Wings and underlines Sandin Pellikka's growing impact in the league. The game also featured notable performances elsewhere, including Washington Capitals captain Alexander Ovechkin scoring his first goal of the season and moving to 898 career NHL goals, aiming to become the first player to hit 900.