Skip to content
Backchecking the Bolts podcast artwork

PODCAST · sports

Backchecking the Bolts

by Jason Linkes

Backchecking the Bolts is your cup of coffee to get you the latest on the Tampa Bay Lightning. We’re breaking down the Lightning’s most recent games and telling you what the box scores didn’t tell you. From tactical breakdowns to player impact, it’s time to look beyond the highlights with host Jason Linkes and the managing editor of Raw Charge (www.rawcharge.com) Justin Godfrey. Please visit our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@BackcheckingtheBolts Follow Backchecking the Bolts on the following platforms. RawCharge: www.rawcharge.com Twitter: Tampa_Bolts_Pod Instagram: Backchecking_the_Bolts Facebook: Backchecking the Bolts Email: <a

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Oct 5, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. From Broadway Blues to Seattle OT Glory! Rangers & Kraken Recap

    From Broadway Blues to Seattle OT Glory! | Tampa Bay Lightning Recap | Backchecking the Bolts The Tampa Bay Lightning experienced the highs and lows of the NHL season this week, suffering a disappointing 4-1 loss to the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden before bouncing back with a…

    more
  2. Tampa Bay Lightning Win 4 Straight! Flyers, Wild & Islanders Recap - Rangers preview

    The Tampa Bay Lightning are RED HOT! Four straight wins and the Bolts are rolling!* On this episode of *Backchecking the Bolts*, host Jason Linkes and co-host Justin Godfrey, Managing Editor of Raw Charge, break down the Tampa Bay Lightning's impressive four-game winning streak as the Bolts...

  3. Lightning Split Opening Weekend! Rangers Loss & Capitals Win Tampa Bay Lightning Recap

    The Tampa Bay Lightning open the 2026-27 NHL season with a split, falling 5-1 to the New York Rangers on opening night before bouncing back with a 3-1 victory over the Washington Capitals in the home opener. On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, Jason Linkes and Raw Charge Managing Editor...

  4. Lightning Season Preview: Burning Questions, Bolts Blueprint & 2026-27 Opening Night Roster

    The 2026-27 Tampa Bay Lightning season is here! The Bolts open the regular season Thursday night in New York against the New York Rangers, and Backchecking the Bolts gets you ready for Opening Night. Raw Charge Managing Editor Justin Godfrey and Jason Linkes break down the biggest questions...

  5. Ben Clymer Interview: Tampa Bay Lightning 2004 Stanley Cup Champion | Stanley Cup to Wall Street

    What does it take to go from Minnesota high school hockey to becoming a Stanley Cup Champion? Former Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Ben Clymer joins Jason Linkes and Justin Godfrey on Backchecking the Bolts for an exclusive interview about his remarkable hockey journey, winning the 2004 Stanley...

  6. Lightning Prospect Tournament Preview + 3 Burning Questions Is Chris Kreider a Fit in Tampa

    The Tampa Bay Lightning are getting closer to the 2026-27 NHL season, and on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down some of the biggest questions surrounding the Bolts as training camp approaches. We start with the Lightning Prospect Tournament in Raleigh, September 13-15. Which...

  7. Tampa Bay Lightning Kucherov Contract, Point vs. Hedman + Hellebuyck Wants a Trade

    The Tampa Bay Lightning are heading toward training camp with some major questions, and on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding the Bolts and the NHL. What will the Lightning do with Nikita Kucherov’s next contract, and what does the future hold...

  8. Syracuse Crunch 2025-26 Season Recap | Lukas Favale on Tampa Bay’s Top AHL Affiliate

    What makes the Syracuse Crunch and Tampa Bay Lightning partnership one of the best in the AHL? We go behind the scenes with Lukas Favale, the voice of the Syracuse Crunch, to take a deep dive into the Crunch's 2025-26 season and the players who could be part of Tampa Bay's future. Lukas joins...

  9. Why the NHL Wants Houston: Expansion, Obstacles & the lure of Hockey in Houston

    The NHL continues to explore expansion opportunities—but could Houston become the league's 33rd franchise? In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes is joined by Matt Savage from the Mission Control: Houston Hockey Podcast to discuss one of hockey's hottest topics. 🏒 Topics...

  10. Are the Tampa Bay Lightning Better on Paper? | Vasilevskiy Concerns & Kucherov's Next Contract

    Are the Tampa Bay Lightning actually better on paper heading into the new NHL season? On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we take an in-depth look at the Lightning's offseason roster changes and whether they've improved enough to contend for another Stanley Cup. We also tackle one of the...

  11. Victor Matheson Explains NHL Salary Caps, No State Income Tax & Arena Financing

    How much of an advantage do NHL teams in Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Nevada, and other no state income tax states really have under the NHL salary cap? In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes sits down with renowned sports economist Victor Matheson, Professor of Economics at...

  12. Patrick Present Breaks Down John Carlson, Jeffrey Viel & the Leo Carlsson Offer Sheet

    The Tampa Bay Lightning made two intriguing additions this offseason in John Carlson and Jeffrey Viel, but what should Lightning fans realistically expect? On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes is joined by Patrick Present, Team Editor and Reporter covering the Anaheim…

    more
  13. Tampa Bay Lightning Free Agency Breakdown | Best & Worst Signings, Departures & Biggest NHL Moves

    The Tampa Bay Lightning have been busy during NHL free agency, and we're breaking down everything you need to know on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. 🏒 In this episode: * Complete breakdown of the Lightning's free agent signings Which players left Tampa Bay and how those departures…

    more
  14. NHL Trade Frenzy Before the Draft! Raddysh to Leafs, Tuch to Capitals & Byram Blockbuster Trade

    On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, Jason and Justin break down the latest NHL Trade Frenzy as teams make major moves before the NHL Entry Draft. 🏒 Topics on this episode: ⚡ Darren Raddysh traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs How does Tampa Bay replace a key defenseman? Did the Lightning…

    more
  15. Peter Taglianetti Interview: Tampa Bay Lightning Inaugural Team, Penguins Stanley Cups & NHL Stories

    Former Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Peter Taglianetti joins Backchecking the Bolts to look back on an incredible hockey journey that stretched from college hockey greatness to the biggest stage in the NHL. Taglianetti was a member of the inaugural 1992-93 Tampa Bay Lightning team and shares...

  16. Can Tampa Bay Lightning Land Dylan Larkin? - 2025-26 Bolts What Ifs - Nick Paul on the move?

    The Tampa Bay Lightning offseason rumors are heating up, and Backchecking the Bolts is breaking it all down! On this episode, Justin brings some big “What Ifs?” from the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2025-26. Jason and Justin discuss whether Nick Paul could become a trade candidate as the Lightning look...

  17. Lightning Prospect Watch: Sam O’Reilly & Jack Pridham’s Development in Kitchener | The Aud Pod Joins

    On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we go north of the border for a deep dive into the future of the Tampa Bay Lightning organization as we are joined by Andrew Merrigan and Justin Born from The Aud Pod, covering the Kitchener Rangers. Andrew and Justin give us an inside look at two of…

    more
  18. Can the Lightning Reload? Stanley Cup Final Talk, Sam O’Reilly, Benjamin Rautiainen & Free Agency

    The Stanley Cup Final is here, and on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding the battle for hockey’s ultimate prize! We’ll discuss: 🏆 Stanley Cup Final preview and predictions ⚡ What the Tampa Bay Lightning can learn from this year’s finalists ⚡...

  19. Eric Perrin Interview From Undrafted to Stanley Cup Champion & Liiga Legend

    Former Tampa Bay Lightning forward and 2004 Stanley Cup Champion Eric Perrin joins Backchecking the Bolts for an in-depth interview covering one of hockey’s most unique career journeys. Eric discusses his path from the University of Vermont to professional hockey after going undrafted, eventually...

  20. Tampa Bay Lightning Offseason Update | Coyle Signing, Prospects + Habs-Sabres Game 7

    The latest episode of Backchecking the Bolts is here! We break down everything surrounding the Tampa Bay Lightning as the offseason heats up. 🔥 Topics covered in this episode: 🏒 How the Charlie Coyle signing could reshape the NHL free agent market ⭐ Deep dive into Lightning prospects: Connor...

  21. Buffalo Sabres Surprise the NHL? Jonah Ahrens Breaks Down Buffalo vs. Montreal + NHL Awards

    The latest episode of Backchecking the Bolts is here! On this episode, we break down the finalists for the NHL’s biggest awards, including the Hart Memorial Trophy, Vezina Trophy, Norris Trophy, Calder Memorial Trophy, Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, and more. Then we're joined by Jonah Ahrens from…

    more
  22. Tampa Bay Lightning Eliminated - Canadiens Series Recap + Sabres Preview ft. Jared Book

    The Tampa Bay Lightning’s playoff run comes to an end as we break down the full first-round series against the Montreal Canadiens on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. Joining the show is Jared Book from Habs Eyes on the Prize (www.https://www.habseyesontheprize.com/), who gives the Montreal...

  23. Lightning Eliminated in Game 7 | Tampa Bay Falls 2-1 to Montreal + NHL Second Round Predictions

    Relive the Tampa Bay Lightning’s heartbreaking season-ending Game 7 loss as Jason Linkes and Justin Godfrey break down the Bolts’ 2-1 defeat to the Montreal Canadiens in Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we analyze what went wrong for the Tampa Bay...

  24. Lightning Stay Alive! Tampa Bay Wins Game 6 in OT vs Montreal, Forces Game 7

    Tampa stays alive! The Tampa Bay Lightning shut out the Montreal Canadiens 1-0 in overtime in Game 6, sending this playoff series to an epic Game 7 in Tampa. On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we recap the overtime winner, defensive masterclass, clutch saves, and biggest turning points…

    more
  25. Lightning on the Brink After Game 5 Loss -Wesley Lawrence on Wild vs Stars

    The Tampa Bay Lightning are on the brink. After a tough 3-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 5, the Lightning now trail the series 3-2 in this best-of-seven matchup. We break down what went wrong, missed opportunities, and what Tampa Bay needs to do to force a Game 7. We’re also joined by...

  26. Bolts Even the Series! Game 4 Breakdown - Crozier-Slafkovský Hit

    On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the Tampa Bay Lightning’s gritty 3-2 Game 4 victory that evened the series at 2-2. We dive into key moments, standout performances, and what changed for Tampa. Plus, we analyze the controversial hit from Max Crozier on Juraj Slafkovský and...

  27. Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Game 3 Recap (3-2 OT Loss) + Bob Grove Interview | NHL & Penguins

    The Tampa Bay Lightning fall 3-2 in overtime to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 3. We break down what went wrong, key moments that decided the game, and how the Bolts respond moving forward in this playoff series. Then, we’re joined by Bob Grove, a veteran NHL journalist with over 30 years…

    more
  28. Lightning vs Canadiens Game 2 Recap Tampa Wins 3-2 in OT

    The Tampa Bay Lightning take Game 2 in dramatic fashion with a 3-2 overtime win over Montreal! ⚡ In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes is joined by Raw Charge Managing Editor Justin Godfrey to break down everything from Game 2 of this best-of-7 series. We dive into: Tampa...

  29. Tampa Bay Lightning Game 1 Recap 4-3 OT Loss + Keys for Game 2

    The Tampa Bay Lightning drop Game 1 in heartbreaking fashion, falling 4-3 in overtime to the Montreal Canadiens. In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down everything that led to the OT loss — from key defensive lapses to standout performances and momentum-shifting moments. We dive...

  30. Jackie Spiegel on Philadelphia Flyers Resurgence + 2026 NHL Playoff 1st Round Predictions

    In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we’re joined by Jackie Spiegel of the Philadelphia Inquirer to break down the resurgence of the Philadelphia Flyers and what it means heading into the 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. Jackie gives insider perspective on what’s driving the Flyers’…

    more
  31. Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Canadiens Playoff Preview ft. Jared Book (Habs Eyes on the Prize)

    The Tampa Bay Lightning are set to face the Montreal Canadiens in a highly anticipated Stanley Cup Playoff matchup, and we’ve got you covered with a full breakdown on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. We’re joined by Jared Book of Habs Eyes on the Prize to get an inside perspective on the...

  32. Lightning Win in OT vs Red Wings ⚡ Playoff Matchup vs Canadiens + Injury Update

    The Tampa Bay Lightning pull off a huge 4-3 overtime win against the Detroit Red Wings, but the bigger story is what comes next… ⚡ The Bolts are officially set to face the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the NHL Playoffs. In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down: The...

  33. Lightning Split vs Canadiens & Bruins, Red Wings Preview + Playoff Race Update

    In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down a tough 2-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens and a gritty 2-1 bounce-back win over the Boston Bruins. What went wrong against Montreal, and what adjustments helped the Tampa Bay Lightning respond against one of their biggest rivals? We also...

  34. Lightning Drop Two Straight | Sabres & Senators Recap, Canadiens Preview & Injuries

    The Tampa Bay Lightning are hitting a rough stretch, and we’re breaking it all down on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. We dive into the Lightning’s recent losses, falling 4-2 to the Buffalo Sabres and 6-2 to the Ottawa Senators, and what’s going wrong on both ends of the ice. We take a...

  35. Lightning Dominate Bruins 3-1! ⚡ Sabres & Senators Preview + Dyngus Day Fun

    The Tampa Bay Lightning take care of business with a dominant 3-1 win over the Boston Bruins, and we’re breaking it all down on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts! From key plays to standout performances, we dive into what fueled Tampa’s victory and what it means moving forward. We also…

    more
  36. Lightning Beat Penguins 6-3 Boston Preview, Leafs News w/ Hardev Lad & Injury Updates

    The Tampa Bay Lightning take down the Pittsburgh Penguins 6-3, and we break it all down on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. From standout performances to key turning points, we recap everything from the Lightning’s big win. We also preview Tampa Bay’s upcoming matchup against the Boston...

  37. Tampa Bay Lightning Recap: 4-1 Loss to Canadiens | Penguins Preview & Mailbag

    Welcome to Backchecking the Bolts, your go-to Tampa Bay Lightning podcast for game breakdowns, analysis, and NHL talk. In this episode, we dive into the Lightning’s 4-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens, breaking down what went wrong, key moments in the game, and standout performances—including...

  38. Lightning Win Streak Continues Ottawa & Nashville Recap + Canadiens Preview + Tortorella to Vegas

    The Tampa Bay Lightning keep the momentum rolling! In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down a big weekend as the Lightning extend their win streak with impressive victories over the Ottawa Senators and Nashville Predators. We dive into key takeaways, standout performances, and…

    more
  39. Lightning Fall in OT to Kraken 4-3 Senators & Predators Preview + Trivia

    Backchecking the Bolts returns with a full breakdown of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s tough 4-3 overtime loss to the Seattle Kraken. We dive into the key moments, game-changing plays, and what ultimately cost the Bolts in overtime. Looking ahead, we preview a crucial weekend slate as the Lightning…

    more
  40. Lightning Dominate 6-3 Win vs Minnesota ⚡ Who’s on Tampa Bay’s Mount Rushmore

    The Tampa Bay Lightning put together an impressive performance in a 6-3 victory over the Minnesota Wild, and we’re breaking it all down on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. From offensive firepower to key turning points, we dive into what this win means as the Bolts continue their push. But...

  41. Lightning Deep Dive: Oilers & Flames Breakdown + Wild Preview | Kucherov Leads NHL Points Race

    In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the Tampa Bay Lightning’s performances against the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames we peview the upcoming game vs. the Minnesota Wild, highlighting tactical adjustments, lineup decisions, and potential game changers. Plus, we take a…

    more
  42. Tampa Bay Lightning Send a MESSAGE in 6-2 Win | Are the Bolts Heating Up?

    The Tampa Bay Lightning deliver a dominant 6-2 victory in Vancouver—are the Bolts starting to heat up at the perfect time? We break down the key moments, top performances, and what this win means heading into big matchups against the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames. Plus, we take a look at how...

  43. Bolts Roll 6-2 in Seattle! ⚡ Kucherov Hat Trick + Canucks Preview & NHL Updates

    Lightning dominate in Seattle as Nikita Kucherov delivers a stunning hat trick in a 6-2 win! ⚡🔥 In this video, we break down Tampa Bay’s big performance, key highlights from the game, and what it means moving forward. Plus, a preview of the upcoming matchup against the Canucks and the latest NHL...

  44. Lightning Fall 4–2 to Hurricanes Tampa Bay Lightning vs Carolina Recap & Kraken Game Preview

    The Tampa Bay Lightning fall 4–2 to the Carolina Hurricanes. In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down what went wrong for the Bolts, key moments from the loss, and what needs to improve before their upcoming matchup against the Seattle Kraken. We also take a look at the college...

  45. Did the Lightning Send a Message vs Detroit? Full Breakdown + Hurricanes Preview

    Did the Tampa Bay Lightning send a message with their win over the Detroit Red Wings? In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down Tampa Bay’s performance against Detroit, highlight the key plays and goal scorers, and discuss what the result means for the Lightning moving forward. We...

  46. 6 Losses in 7 Games...What's Happening to the Lightning

    The Tampa Bay Lightning are struggling, dropping 6 of their last 7 games — so what’s going wrong in Tampa? In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the Lightning’s 5–2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, analyze the biggest issues behind the recent slump, and discuss what needs to...

  47. Buffalo’s Insane 8-7 Game + Lightning vs Toronto Recap NHL Trade Deadline Talk

    The NHL Trade Deadline has passed and there’s a lot to break down. In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we dive into the biggest trade deadline moves around the league and what they mean for teams heading toward the Stanley Cup Playoffs. We also recap the Lightning vs. Toronto matchup and…

    more
  48. Tampa Bay Lightning Recap vs Wild & Jets | Leafs & Sabres Preview + NHL Trade Deadline Talk

    Backchecking the Bolts goes beyond the box scores and break down the Tampa Bay Lightning's most recent tilts and news. Hosts: Jason Linkes and the managing editor of Raw Charge (www.rawcharge.com) Justin Godfrey Episode: 13 Get caught up on everything surrounding the Tampa Bay Lightning in this...

  49. Lightning vs. Wild & Jets + Breaking Down the Western Conference at the Trade Deadline

    Backchecking the Bolts goes beyond the box scores and break down the Tampa Bay Lightning's most recent tilts and news. Hosts: Jason Linkes and the managing editor of Raw Charge (www.rawcharge.com) Justin Godfrey Episode: 12 Today's episode features: Preview of the upcoming Minnesota and Winnipeg...

  50. Buffalo Sabers Shellacking - Metro Division Trade Deadline Talk

    Backchecking the Bolts goes beyond the box scores and break down the Tampa Bay Lightning's most recent tilts and news. Hosts: Jason Linkes and the managing editor of Raw Charge (www.rawcharge.com) Justin Godfrey Episode: 11 Today's episode features: Recap of the dud at home against Buffalo NHL…

    more

Type above to search every episode's transcript for a word or phrase. Matches are scoped to this podcast.

Searching…

We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.

No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.

Showing of matches

No topics indexed yet for this podcast.

Loading reviews...

ABOUT THIS SHOW

Backchecking the Bolts is your cup of coffee to get you the latest on the Tampa Bay Lightning. We’re breaking down the Lightning’s most recent games and telling you what the box scores didn’t tell you. From tactical breakdowns to player impact, it’s time to look beyond the highlights with host Jason Linkes and the managing editor of Raw Charge (www.rawcharge.com) Justin Godfrey.

Please visit our YouTube Channel:

www.youtube.com/@BackcheckingtheBolts

Follow Backchecking the Bolts on the following platforms. RawCharge: www.rawcharge.com Twitter: Tampa_Bolts_Pod Instagram: Backchecking_the_Bolts Facebook: Backchecking the Bolts Email: <a

HOSTED BY

Jason Linkes

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Backchecking the Bolts have?

Backchecking the Bolts currently has 58 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Backchecking the Bolts about?

Backchecking the Bolts is your cup of coffee to get you the latest on the Tampa Bay Lightning. We’re breaking down the Lightning’s most recent games and telling you what the box scores didn’t tell you. From tactical breakdowns to player impact, it’s time to look beyond the highlights with host...

How often does Backchecking the Bolts release new episodes?

Backchecking the Bolts has 58 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Backchecking the Bolts?

You can listen to Backchecking the Bolts on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Backchecking the Bolts?

Backchecking the Bolts is created and hosted by Jason Linkes.
URL copied to clipboard!