Podcast
Bolts Breakdown
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans - to help Bolts Nation follow the team & enjoy their fandom more. Boomer & Tommy release episodes weekly (Thursday mornings) where they talk about all things Tampa Bay Lightning, from game recaps to breaking news to bold predictions.
X: @BoltsBreakdown
Substack: @BoltsBreakdown
Subscribe To Weekly Newsletter: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
- Episodes
- 35
- Releases
- Weekly
- Typical length
- 45 min
- On air since
- 2026
- Latest episode
- 3 days ago
Episodes
35 episodes, newest first
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23 min
(BONUS): Kucherov Says Trade; BriseBois Says No. What Now?!
Show notes
This is a bonus episode of the Bolts Breakdown Podcast, where Tommy & Boomer react to Nikita Kucherov's recent trade request.
What led to this? Where do the Bolts go from here? Is the relationship reparable? Is the Lightning's season ruined?
MENTIONED MEDIA:
Stamkos/Kucherov Video: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown/status/2116325767303110798?a=FCEplLzHXM2dYGrN27U&s=20
Original Story Break: https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/sources-nikita-kucherov-tells-lightning-he-wont-re-sign-asks-for-trade/
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown.contact@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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56 min
(EP. 34) Nikita Kucherov Isn't The Only Story In Tampa Bay
Show notes
In this episode of the Bolts Breakdown podcast, Boomer & Tommy discuss the Tampa Bay Lightning and their start to the 2026-27 NHL Season—11 games in! Here are a few topics they discuss:
1) Nikita Kucherov breaking Tampa Bay Lightning franchise record for points.
2) Do the Lightning have too much depth on the roster? Should a player be traded?
3) Is a Brayden Point bounce back imminent? When will he become the 6th player in franchise history to reach 700 career points?
Get involved with the show! Here are a few links:
SHOOT YOUR SHOT: bit.ly/boltsbreakdown
THUNDERBUCKET: bit.ly/boltsbreakdown
Last Week's Episode: https://youtu.be/Jl_y-6WGq48?si=yD4RC6GRFvGZWbCU
Last Week's Blog Post: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-lightnings-toughest-road-trip
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown.contract@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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47 min
(EP. 33) Just How Good Are The Tampa Bay Lightning?
Show notes
In this episode, Boomer & Tommy react to the Lightning's strong start to the 2026-27 season. They discuss their standout players (Boomer: Erik Cernak & Tommy: Pontus Holmberg), and they talk through their concern level with the team as a whole.
They discuss the Lightning atrocious start to the power play (just 3-for-28 through 8 games), and they also take a look at the seven other teams in the Atlantic Division (Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Ottawa Senators, Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, Boston Bruins).
Plus, this episode features a new segment: Shoot Your Shot. This will be a reoccurring segment where fans can write their opinions into the show & Boomer/Tommy will talk about them in the episode.
The ThunderBucket prompt for this week is this: If the Bolts had to practice on rollerblades down Bayshore, which player will eat pavement first?
LINKS:
Interact With The Show (ThunderBucket/Shoot Your Shot): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_dnwpYC_587To32EmKfk6Ghl4v147QXznhQHgCgrozVDO8A/viewform
Blog/Newsletter: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/where-do-the-lightning-stand-8-games
Last Week's Episode: https://youtu.be/hhpbj62ZW_Y?si=qrCt9YWAqswtD6tw
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown.contact@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
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53 min
(EP. 32) Three Bolts, Three Very Different Questions
Show notes
In this episode, Boomer & Tommy talk about Nikita Kucherov, Victor Hedman, and Conor Geekie. For each player, they rank (0-10) how pleased they are with their start to the 2026-27 season. Then, they ask a couple other questions surrounding each player:
Kucherov: Are you happy with how Jon Cooper is deploying him? How would you like him to break the franchise scoring title?
Hedman: How does he compare to vintage, 2018, Victor Hedman? What is your hope for the rest of this season?
Geekie: Do you still see him as a big part of this Tampa Bay Lightning future? How patient should the Lightning be with him?
The episode concludes with a drawing from the ThunderBucket. This week's prompt was this: If you had to sum up Lightning hockey using only Florida Man headlines, what would you say?
You can submit your own ThunderBucket prompt here: bit.ly/thunderbucket
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
LINKS:
Last week's episode: https://youtu.be/1dy_yE-9QmI?si=ju8qQA0rBX8SXtNl
This week's blog post: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/a-closer-look-at-the-tampa-bay-lightnings
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown.contact@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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45 min
(EP. 31) The Power Play & The Lightning's Identity
Show notes
In this episode, Boomer & Tommy discuss three main topics:
1. Line Combinations & Roster Construction
2. The Sulking Power Play (0-for-13 to start the year)
3. The Lightning Identity (work ethic, hustle, forecheck, toughness).
At the end, they draw from the ThunderBucket. This week’s prompt is this: Would you rather take a full-speed Victor Hedman slap shot as a goalie or get run into the boards by Erik Cernak?
Here are a few links discussed in this episode:
Last Week’s Blog: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/what-happened-in-week-one-of-the
Last Week’s Episode: https://youtu.be/iydinm1NmJU?si=QV0LLYaQ5ioV1vCs
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown.contact@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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44 min
(EP. 30) The Lightning's Promising Season Begins With A Dud
Show notes
In this episode of the Bolts Breakdown Podcast, Boomer & Tommy react to the Tampa Bay Lightning's season-opening game, a 5-1 loss to the New York Rangers. They also go through upcoming milestones for the Lightning's players as well as discuss the current roster construction.
The episode ends with a drawing from the ThunderBucket. This week's prompt was this: If you could re-live (re-experience) one moment from Lightning history but you had to erase it from your memory afterwards, which moment would you chose?
You can submit your own ThunderBucket prompt here: bit.ly/thunderbucket
You can read about all the Lightning's milestones here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/every-tampa-bay-lightning-milestone
Brandon Hagel (Podcast Mentioned): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brandon-hagel-on-the-cam-strick-podcast/id1481543060?i=1000779812889
Catch last week's episode: https://youtu.be/xEBvdGgh-8g?si=aIIl2REHyTlPM5Ga
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown.contact@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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46 min
(EP. 29) Heddy Is Back, Hockey Is Back || A Tampa Bay Lightning Preseason Discussion
Show notes
In this episode, Boomer and Tommy talk about the Tampa Bay Lightning & their 2026-27 preseason campaign. They discuss Captain Victor Hedman, how he's lost weight, how he looks faster & stronger, and what type of season he'd need to have to satisfy fans...
Boomer and Tommy also talk about which young forward will make the roster out of training camp...will it be Sam O'Reilly? Conor Geekie? Jansen Harkins? Dylan Duke? Benjamin Rautiainen? Jakob Pelletier?
Finally, the conclusion of the episode is a drawing from the ThunderBucket. This week's prompt was this: If you could go back & listen to the mic'd up audio of one moment in Lightning history, which moment would you choose?
Here are some links mentioned in the episode:
5 Things Every Lightning Fan Should Know Before The 2026-27 Season: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/5-things-every-lightning-fan-should
Last Week's Episode: https://youtu.be/7SpyhdJ0nrY?si=BktALqJiiULsuWZF
Ilya Mikheyev's Preseason Goal: https://x.com/TBLightning/status/2101784591723900971?s=20
Conor Geekie's Preseason Goal: https://x.com/TBLightning/status/2101790262334718307?s=20
Jeffrey Viel's First Preseason Goal: https://x.com/TBLightning/status/2102567851421036579?s=20
Jeffrey Viel's Second Preseason Goal: https://x.com/TBLightning/status/2102579561523187944?s=20
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Email: Boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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47 min
(Ep. 28) - Let's Talk About The Atlantic Division
Show notes
This episode of the Bolts Breakdown podcast is a preview discussion of the Atlantic Division before the 2026-27 NHL season.
Boomer and Tommy walk through each of the Lightning’s opponents & discuss last year’s series as well as key additions & subtractions for each club during this offseason.
The episode also highlights recent Lightning news, like Nikita Kucherov’s lack of contract extension & injury updates from the recent Lightning media day (linked below).
Finally, the ThunderBucket prompt concludes the episode: If you could sneak into benchmark International Arena overnight, would you try on ThunderBug’s costume or ride the Zamboni?
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You can find links mentioned in the show below:
Atlantic Division Preview: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-tampa-bay-lightnings-atlantic?r=5gsqvk&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=web
Lightning Media Day: https://www.youtube.com/live/G0g4LFR_Ko0?si=UJXqddt7Oj6DMRKy
Pontus Holmberg Highlight: https://x.com/TBLightning/status/1977799828118651019?s=20
Darren Raddysh Highlight: https://x.com/NHL/status/2040576956370976920?s=20
Prospect Episode: https://youtu.be/1Zq97DIg6uM?si=nnOOJopfbcwVLnzx
Prospect Article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-tampa-bay-lightning-prospect?r=5gsqvk&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=web
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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01:15 - Lightning Prospect Showcase
08:00 - Recent Injuries
09:50 - Nikita Kucherov Extension
18:34 - Atlantic Division Preview
20:48 - Boston Bruins
25:13 - Detroit Red Wings
27:46 - Florida Panthers
32:50 - Toronto Maple Leafs
35:10 - Montreal Canadiens
36:57 - Ottawa Senators
38:38 - Buffalo Sabres
41:00 - Which rival team will be the Lightning's toughest test
43:45 - ThunderBucket
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43 min
(Ep. 27) - Let's Talk About Yanni Gourde || Tampa Bay Lightning
Show notes
In this episode, Boomer & Tommy discuss how important Yanni Gourde has been to the Tampa Bay Lightning over the course of his career.
They talk about his unique path to the NHL.
They talk about his tenacity on the ice.
They talk about his leadership in the dressing room.
...
They ask whether Gourde has done enough to warrant a statue, or a jersey retirement, or a Lightning hall of fame nomination.
Plus, there's a 15-question trivia-style game about Yanni Gourde. Tommy scored 28 points; leave a comment with how many you score!
Here are a few links mentioned in the episode:
Yanni Gourde Article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/yanni-gourde-the-five-things-every
ThunderBucket Prompt: bit.ly/thunderbucket
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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49 min
(Ep. 26) Discussing The Lightning's Recent First Round Playoff Losses
Show notes
This episode is all about the Tampa Bay Lightning & how they've lost the last four years in Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Tommy & Boomer remember each series (2023 vs the Toronto Maple Leafs, 2024 vs the Florida Panthers, 2025 vs the Florida Panthers, and 2026 vs the Montreal Canadiens). With each year, they recap the big moments & discuss any trends they have seen.
Here are some questions they discuss in the episode:
1) Are there any reoccurring problems or trends from the last four years? If so, have they been corrected for the 2026-27 season? If there aren't, when does bad luck/good opponents become an inexcusable answer?
2) Do the last four years impact your expectations for this upcoming season (2026-27)?
3) Which of the last four years stings you the worst as a fan?
Finally, Boomer & Tommy draw from the ThunderBucket to conclude the episode. This week's prompt is this: If Jon Cooper coached a different sport in the Tampa Bay area, which sport would he dominate (Rays, Bucs, Rowdies, USF, etc.)?
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
LINKS:
Read The Blog: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/revisiting-the-tampa-bay-lightnings
Watch Last Week's Episode: https://youtu.be/YCk8bTUZhLM?si=kMUb0mpKcFEDJmrY
Submit A Prompt For The ThunderBucket: https://bit.ly/ThunderBucket
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown.contact@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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Chapters:
01:20 - Lightning News
02:27 - 2023 vs Toronto Maple Leafs
09:04 - 2024 vs Florida Panthers
15:05 - 2025 vs Florida Panthers
20:02 - 2026 vs Montreal Canadiens
21:52 - Reoccurring Problems/Trends
26:30 - 2015 to 2019 Comparison
37:05 - Can you let the past go or do it impact your expectations for 2026-27?
39:10 - Which of the last four years bothers you the most?
42:09 - Which Lightning players have been with the Bolts in all four Round 1 losses?
43:57 - ThunderBucket Prompt
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47 min
(EP. 25) Nikita Kucherov's 2025-26 MVP Season & Where It Ranks In Hockey History
Show notes
Nikita Kucherov’s 2025-26 season was one for the history books. And in this episode of the Bolts Breakdown Podcast, Boomer & Tommy relive all the best moments & crazy statistics. The show even includes each of the host’s top five Nikita Kucherov highlights from the 2025-26 season.
They discuss (as fans) what makes Kucherov so intriguing. They discuss what about Kucherov’s game irks them. They discuss what he could do next season that would still be surprising.
The episode concludes with a drawing from the ThunderBucket.
Here are a few important links mentioned in the video:
Nikita Kucherov Article:https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/nikita-kucherovs-2025-26-mvp-season
Boomer’s Top Five Highlights:https://substack.com/profile/330545936-bolts-breakdown/note/c-323680065?r=5gsqvk&utm_source=notes-share-action&utm_medium=web
Tommy’s Top Five Highlights: https://substack.com/profile/330545936-bolts-breakdown/note/c-323680408?r=5gsqvk&utm_source=notes-share-action&utm_medium=web
ThunderBucket: https://bit.ly/ThunderBucket
—
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here:https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article:https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content:https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free):https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown.contact@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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43 min
(EP. 24) Jeff Viel || A Perfect Fit For The Tampa Bay Lightning
Show notes
This episode discusses who Jeff Viel is & why he's a perfect fit for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Signed July 1st, 2026, Jeff Viel joins the Bolts on a 2.5M AAV, 5-year contract.
What does he bring to the team?
Is he more than just a fighter?
What role will he play?
How impactful will he be?
Boomer & Tommy discuss all these questions & more. They conclude the episode with another offseason game: 10 questions about how Jeff Viel is similar to the other players on the roster. See how you do compared to Tommy (who scored 9 points)!
ThunderBucket Prompt: If you could mic up one player 24/7 for a week, which player would you choose?
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
LINKS:
Submit a prompt for the ThunderBucket: https://bit.ly/ThunderBucket
Jeff Viel Article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/jeffrey-viel-a-perfect-fit-for-the
Blog posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
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Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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54 min
(Ep. 23) TOUGH or CARELESS? Have the Lightning Reclaimed Their Identity?
Show notes
This episode of the Bolts Breakdown Podcast talks about the Tampa Bay Lightning & their physical, in-your-face identity. Boomer & Tommy discuss if fighting 56 times in a season is a good idea, if it’s necessary, if it’s overkill, and much more.
Then, they discuss the best five fights from the season, each giving their rankings & discussing their decision.
Finally, the episode ends with a drawing from the ThunderBucket. This week’s prompt was this: If you could have two Lightning players switch bodies (freaky-friday style), which two would you switch?
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
LINKS:
Brandon Hagel Podcast (interview at 1:18:00):
https://youtu.be/-L-urtQ6igE?is=RRKS_ZgbkZadmdkH
‘25-26 Tampa Bay Lightning Fight Log:
https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-2025-26-tampa-bay-lightning-fight?r=5gsqvk&utm_medium=ios
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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45 min
(EP. 22) - Discussing The Tampa Bay Lightning '26–27 Forward Group
Show notes
This episode of the Bolts Breakdown Podcast is all about the Tampa Bay Lightning forwards.
• What will the line combos look like?
• Which rookies will make their debut?
• Are there any weaknesses in the group?
Tommy & Boomer discuss all of it and more. Plus, this episode features a 10-question game about all the current forwards on the team! Tommy scored 26 of 30 points; can you beat him?
The episode ends with another ThunderBucket prompt (Which opposing fanbase cries the most when they lose to the Tampa Bay Lightning?).
Dominic James Spotlight: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/who-is-dominic-james
Last Week’s Episode (Ilya Mikheyev): https://youtu.be/3kzomW7gVgw?si=-o3vPPMwoYK8_bwA
Blog Posts release every Monday. Subscribe for free here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
Read every previous article: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Follow me on X for daily content: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Join the Bolts Breakdown chat (free): https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Email: Boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans—to help them know the team & enjoy it more.
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42 min
(EP. 21) - Ilya Mikheyev's Story & His Role In Tampa Bay
Show notes
This episode of the Bolts Breakdown Podcast talks about Ilya Mikheyev & his role in with the Lightning. Boomer & Tommy discuss the Russian winger's seven season NHL career (including stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, & Chicago Blackhawks) & what Bolts Nation can expect from him in Tampa Bay.
Will Mikheyev play top-six minutes? Will his injury history catch up with him? Is he too old to have his breakout season?
We answer all these questions & more.
Plus, the episode ends with a Dominic James trivia segment: 15 questions to test your knowledge on one of the youngest forwards on the Lightning's roster.
At the conclusion of the episode, Boomer & Tommy draw from the ThunderBucket. This week, their prompt deals with OT winners, shutouts, or hat tricks.
LINKS:
Ilya Mikheyev Story: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/ilya-mikheyev-a-journey-of-unrealized
2026-27 Schedule Breakdown: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-2026-27-tampa-bay-lightning-schedule?r=5gsqvk
Subscribe For Free Weekly Newsletters: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
X: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Substack: https://substack.com/chat/4602433
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Email: boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
Bolts Breakdown exists in two formats: as a podcast & as a newsletter. Both are free resources for Tampa Bay Lightning fans.
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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42 min
(EP. 20) - How Strong Is The Tampa Bay Lightning Defense?
Show notes
Bolts Breakdown exists in two formats: as a podcast & as a newsletter. Both are free resources for Tampa Bay Lightning fans.
In this episode of the Bolts Breakdown Podcast, Boomer & Tommy discuss the current defense & just how good they really are. First, though, they talk about recent Tampa Bay Lightning news:
The release of the 2026-27 NHL schedule!
You can read all about it here: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-2026-27-tampa-bay-lightning-schedule
Then, Boomer & Tommy play a 15-question trivia-style game about the Lightning No. 1 defender JJ Moser. Play along & see if you can beat Tommy.
At the conclusion of the episode, Boomer & Tommy draw from the ThunderBucket & discuss which Lightning player would be the best playing with the opposite handed stick.
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans - to help Bolts Nation follow the team & enjoy their fandom more.
LINKS:
Last Week's Episode: https://youtu.be/Xt652PTvcgQ?si=POQjxiHgSG5OD9X_
Submit To The ThunderBucket: https://bit.ly/ThunderBucket
Emil Lilleberg: A Story Of Perseverance: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/emil-lilleberg-a-story-of-perseverance
2026-27 Schedule Breakdown: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-2026-27-tampa-bay-lightning-schedule
Subscribe For Free Weekly Newsletters: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
X: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Substack: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Email: boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
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50 min
(EP. 19) - Tampa Bay Lightning Single-Game Records
Show notes
Bolts Breakdown exists in two formats: as a podcast & as a newsletter. Both are free resources for Tampa Bay Lightning fans.
LINKS:
Read The Full Newsletter: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/tampa-bay-lightning-single-game-record
Submit To The ThunderBucket: https://bit.ly/ThunderBucket
Subscribe For Free Weekly Newsletters: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
X: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Substack: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Email: boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
In this episode of the Bolts Breakdown Podcast, Boomer & Tommy discuss recent Tampa Bay Lightning news:
- Pierre-Édouard Bellemare returns to the Lightning organization
- Impending Nikita Kucherov extension
- Seven other Lightning players eligible to be extended
Afterwards, Boomer & Tommy walk through many of the Lightning's single-game records. The Bolts have played 2,835 games in their 33-year NHL existence. Over time, they've built records that are borderline unfathomable.
Delivered through an "over/under" style trivia game, Boomer & Tommy walk through 20 different Lightning records. Everything from most hits in a game to most short-handed goals.
At the conclusion of the episode, Boomer & Tommy draw from the ThunderBucket & discuss the current Tampa Bay Lightning logo.
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans - to help Bolts Nation follow the team & enjoy their fandom more.
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50 min
(EP. 18) - Tampa Bay Lightning Offseason Reactions
Show notes
In this episode, the 18th episode of Bolts Breakdown, Boomer & Tommy talk about the 2026 Tampa Bay Lightning offseason: Jeffrey Viel, Dennis Hildeby, John Carlson, Ilya Mikeyev. This episode also includes discussion over the departure of Darren Raddysh & Nick Paul, both now members of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
At the end of the episode, Boomer & Tommy play a commonality game with every member of the current Tampa Bay Lightning team. See if you can beat Tommy’s score of 8/10!
The episode concludes with another drawing from the ThunderBucket: “Which player on the current Tampa Bay Lightning roster, not in the Top Six or Top Pairing, should have a statue outside Benchmark International Arena?
SHOWNOTES:
Read The Full Offseason Guide: https://open.substack.com/pub/boltsbreakdown/p/the-complete-2026-lightning-offseason?r=5gsqvk&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=web
Submit To The ThunderBucket: https://bit.ly/ThunderBucket
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans - to help Bolts Nation follow the team & enjoy their fandom more.
Subscribe For Free Weekly Newsletters: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
X: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Substack: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Email: boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
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45 min
(EP. 17) - Lightning Trivia Game: Brandon Hagel/Anthony Cirelli Edition
Show notes
In this episode, the 17th episode of Bolts Breakdown, Boomer & Tommy talk about Anthony Cirelli & Brandon Hagel, the Tampa Bay Lightning's dynamic duo!
This episode features a "Guess Who" style Lightning trivia game. 25 statements about either Brandon Hagel or Anthony Cirelli, it's your job to decipher which player it applies to!
Additionally, Boomer & Tommy rank their top-five most important Lightning players in this current age of Lightning hockey.
SHOWNOTES:
Read The Full Newsletter: https://open.substack.com/pub/boltsbreakdown/p/ranking-the-10-most-important-players?r=5gsqvk&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Pat Maroon Article (The Once Unwanted Hockey Legend): https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-once-unwanted-hockey-legend
Submit To The ThunderBucket: bit.ly/thunderbucket
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans - to help Bolts Nation follow the team & enjoy their fandom more.
Subscribe For Free Weekly Newsletters: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
X: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Substack: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Email: boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
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49 min
(EP. 16) - The Story Behind The Greatest Coach In Tampa Bay Lightning History, Jon Cooper.
Show notes
Jon Cooper's story is one of the most unique success stories in sports.
In this episode, the 16th episode of Bolts Breakdown, Boomer & Tommy talk about Jon Cooper & his story. Plus, Boomer delivers a Jon Cooper Trivia Game! See if you can beat Tommy who scored 12-of-15.
Read The Full Newsletter: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/jon-cooper-the-unstoppable-coach
Pat Maroon Article (The Once Unwanted Hockey Legend): https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/p/the-once-unwanted-hockey-legend
Submit To The ThunderBucket: bit.ly/thunderbucket
Music: “Energetic Action Sport” by AlexGrohl (Pixabay)
Bolts Breakdown exists for Tampa Bay Lightning fans - to help Bolts Nation follow the team & enjoy their fandom more.
Subscribe For Free Weekly Newsletters: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/embed
X: https://x.com/BoltsBreakdown
Substack: https://boltsbreakdown.substack.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boltsbreakdown/
Email: boltsbreakdown@gmail.com
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