Panthers Rally with Two Goals in Third Period to Defeat Lightning 3-2 in Game 1 of NHL Playoffs

The Florida Panthers secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 1 of their NHL playoff series opener on Sunday. Carter Verhaeghe scored the game-winning goal just 58 seconds into the third period, tapping in a perfect pass from Aleksander Barkov. Matthew Tkachuk also contributed with a goal and an assist, while Sam Reinhart found the back of the net as well.

The Panthers, who hadn’t won a Game 1 on home ice since 1997, got a solid performance from goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, who made 17 saves. On the other side, Brandon Hagel and Steven Stamkos scored for the Lightning, who now find themselves trailing in a series for the first time. Andrei Vasilevskiy made 25 saves in the losing effort.

This victory marks a significant moment for the Panthers, who have been looking to establish themselves as a force in the playoffs. After suffering defeats at the hands of the Lightning in their previous postseason matchups, Florida seems determined to turn the tide this time around.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing their offensive firepower. Verhaeghe’s goal on the power play proved to be the difference-maker, as the Panthers held on for the win. With Game 2 set for Tuesday in Sunrise, the stage is set for an intense battle between these Sunshine State rivals.