The Tampa Bay Lightning certainly put on one heck of a show against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The two points that the Lightning earned in this encounter allowed them to regain their spot in the Eastern Conference Standings. There is no denying that one of the driving forces in this game that opened the door for the win was the natural hat trick from Lightning captain Steven Stamkos.

Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos (91)Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The action would be spread across two periods of play. The first of which would not come until just over the halfway point in the period.

The first of Stamkos’ three goals came in the first period as Maple Leafs left wing David Clarkson sat in the box for two minutes for Interference on Victor Hedman.

At 13:22, Stamkos would capitalize on the power play, notching goal number one; his 17th of the season.

Just over two minutes later, he would score goal number two with assist from centerand defenseman. This would make number 18 overall for the captain.

In true Stammer form, Stamkos would notch his third and final goal of the night at just 5:55 in the second period. Stammer would get the assists from left wingand defenseman. This would serve as Stamkos’ 19overall goal.

Steven Stamkos has been back just 7 games, not counting the one that the Bolts are playing right now, and he has already netted 5 goals and 2 assists for a total of 7 points. I still assert that had Stamkos not broken his leg at the beginning of the season that he was on the fast track to leading the NHL in goals and possibly points; however, that is another story for another day.

What did you think of Stammer’s performance in last night’s game against the Maple Leafs? Do you think he has what it takes to lead the Lightning into the post season? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

Be sure to stay up-to-date with all the latest Lightning news and updates with Bolts By the Bay. LIKE us on Facebook at Bolts By The Bay, and you can follow us on Twitter at @BoltsByTheBay.