Recognizing Lucy's sharp observational skills and card-playing talent, the team sends her undercover into an exclusive, high-stakes illegal poker tournament. While Lucy sits at the table trying to out-bluff dangerous criminals, the rest of the team must operate in the shadows, fighting to keep her safe when the operation inevitably starts to go sideways. 💞 Personal Dramas

The central conflict arises when critical evidence needed to convict a major drug kingpin goes missing. To track down the culprit and find out which high-rolling criminal mastermind orchestrated the theft, the NCIS team orchestrates an elaborate sting.

"NCIS: Hawai'i" The Game (TV Episode 2022) - Full cast & crew

Lucy's brewing relationship with FBI Special Agent Kate Whistler ( Tori Anderson ) is thrown into complete disarray when Whistler's ex-girlfriend, Cara ( Juliana Folk ), unexpectedly shows up in town. Cara operates under the impression that she and Whistler are still very much together, leaving Lucy's emotions in absolute turmoil.

Adding to the team's interpersonal dynamics, the episode features the return of Detective Dalia Reed (Lauren Cook), the girlfriend of tech specialist Ernie Malik (Jason Antoon). Her presence sparks a handful of comedic and uncomfortable moments for Ernie and the rest of the squad. 🎭 Key Cast & Guest Stars Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant Yasmine Al-Bustami as Lucy Tara Tori Anderson as Kate Whistler Jason Antoon as Ernie Malik Scott Lawrence as Judge Malcolm Keen Juliana Folk as Cara

While the professional stakes are high, Lucy's personal life becomes equally chaotic in this episode:

Hawai'i , which originally aired on January 17, 2022. 📺 Episode Overview: "The Game"