Jeff Halpern’s goal is the difference for Lightning

Tampa, Fla. — Jeff Halpern scored in the fifth round of the shootout and Antero Niittymaki topped Atlanta again in the Tampa Bay Lightning’s 2-1 victory Saturday night.

Niittymaki made 37 saves, including three strong stops during the overtime period, and improved to 15-0 against the Thrashers.

Steven Stamkos netted Tampa Bay’s only goal.

Nik Antropov scored for the Thrashers, who have lost 13 of 15 games on the road. Johan Hedberg stopped 24 shots.

-- associated press