This week in Lightning history: The franchise is born

December 5, 2009 - Victor Hedman's first career goal
Still 18 years-old at the time, the second overall pick in the 2009 draft put an exclamation point on a rout of the Islanders. Already leading 3-0 midway through the third period, Hedman finished a 2-on-1 feed from Vinny Lecavalier for the first goal of his career. The Bolts would go on and win 4-0.

December 6, 1990 - Hockey is coming to Tampa Bay
NHL President John Ziegler announces that Tampa Bay has been awarded a franchise. Under the guidance and direction of original owner Phil Esposito, Tampa Bay would play their first game less than two years later.

December 6, 2011 - St. Louis' meaningful night against the Isles
Skating in an eventual 5-1 loss to the Islanders in New York, Marty St. Louis appeared in his 499th consecutive game, setting a franchise record that still stands today. St. Louis also earned the 800th point of his career on a first period goal. His consecutive game streak would end prior two nights later, after St. Louis was struck in the face by a puck at practice.
Watch: Marty records his 800th point
December 10, 2005 - Graham's ninth straight victory
Goaltender John Graham has an easy night in goal, stopping 13 of 16 shots as the Bolts knocked off the Predators 4-3. The victory was Graham's ninth in a row, setting a franchise record that has yet to be matched.