The NHL has postponed the Oct. 12 game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and Carolina Hurricanes at Amalie Arena due to the destructive impact of Hurricane Milton, which made landfall as a Category 3 storm. As recovery efforts begin in Tampa Bay, the league is working to establish a new date for the game. The hurricane caused widespread devastation in Florida, resulting in multiple fatalities and significant infrastructure damage. Florida officials are mobilizing resources, including a 10,000-person base camp, to assist with recovery efforts. Hurricane Milton has since been downgraded to a Category 1 storm.

By the Numbers
  • Five confirmed fatalities in St. Lucie County due to tornadoes linked to the storm.
  • Additional five storm-related deaths reported in St. Petersburg and Volusia County.
Yes, But

While recovery efforts are underway, concerns remain about the extent of damage and the potential for further fatalities as residents assess the aftermath of Milton. Emergency services are stretched thin, complicating response efforts.

State of Play
  • The Lightning finished last season with a 45-29-8 record, earning 98 points.
  • The Hurricanes concluded their season at 52-23-7, with a total of 111 points.
What's Next

As recovery operations progress, officials will likely announce a rescheduled date for the postponed game soon. The NHL will continue to monitor the situation in Florida to ensure the safety of players and fans.

Bottom Line

The postponement of the Lightning vs. Hurricanes game underscores the significant impact of Hurricane Milton on Florida, highlighting the urgent need for recovery resources and the safety of the community.