Drouin scores game winner in return because of course he does (Video)

Remember that one time when everyone thought Jonathan Drouin would never appear in a Tampa Bay Lightning game ever again?

Funny story.

On Thursday morning, Drouin was called up from the Syracuse Crunch (AHL). On Thursday night, he was playing in his first NHL game since December 30. The 21-year-old forward went on to score what would hold up to be the game winner against the New Jersey Devils.

Anyone not acutely aware of the Drouin situation that unfolded through the past few months would think this was just a young player getting his chance. Of course, we all know otherwise.

So, is this considered a "win" for Drouin after all the drama with the organization?

While this victory did clinch home ice in the first round for the Lightning, it's not earthshaking. If Drouin wants any leverage going into the off season, he has to perform in the playoffs. With so many key players out of the Tampa lineup, the kid can show his worth by his actions on the ice and leave the childish games off of it.

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Jen Neale is an editor for Puck Daddy on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at puckdaddyblog@yahoo.com or follow her on Twitter! Follow @MsJenNeale_PD.

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