Panthers defeat Lightning, take 3-0 series lead

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TAMPA — After winning the first two games of the series at home in Sunrise, the Florida Panthers came into Amalie Arena and took Game 3 from the Tampa Bay Lightning, winning 5-3.

 

The Panthers now hold a 3-0 series lead and will have the chance to sweep the Lightning on Saturday night in Tampa. 

 

Carter Verhaeghe,  Matthew Tkachuk and Anton Lundell connected for the overtime winner in Game 2. In Thursday night’s Game 3, they did it again to open the scoring. 

 

With possession of the puck deep in Tampa’s zone, Verhaeghe spun a pass to Lundell, who circled behind Tampa’s net, feeding a wide open Tkachuk in front of goal. Tkachuk beat Vasilevskiy for his second goal of the postseason — giving the Panthers a 1-0 lead, 10:39 into the game.

 

There was a clear advantage for special teams numbers in the first period. Tampa went to the power play three times, Florida didn’t have one. 


Fortunately for the Panthers, they not only killed all three, but they did a very good job at clogging up the zone, hindering Tampa’s zone entries on the first two power play attempts. 

 

Not too much was going for the Lightning in the first, but they appeared to finally get on the board with 17 seconds to go in the opening period.

 

Anthony Cirelli beat Sergei Bobrovsky to tie the game, however, a coach’s challenge from the Panthers bench was successful in overturning the goal for offsides. 

 

The Panthers went to the break up 1-0.

 

Down 2-0 in the series and 1-0 in the game, the home team needed life and their captain brought it to them.

 

Just 44 seconds into the second, Steven Stamkos redirected a shot from Victor Hedman past Sergei Bobrovsky to tie the game up at 1-1.

 

That was Stamkos’ third goal of the playoffs, the most of anyone in the series at that point. 

 

In the first three games of the series, someone has scored within the opening minute of the period — Verhaeghe in Game 1 (58 seconds), Point in Game 2 (48 seconds), and Stamkos in Game 3 (44 seconds). 

 

Feeding off their captain’s goal, the Lightning would take their first lead of the series a little over two minutes later. 

 

Tyler Motte beat Sergei Bobrovsky up high for his first goal of the series, giving the Lightning a 2-1 lead 2:56 into the second.

 

The surge from the Lightning in the following six minutes of interrupted play was unlike anything the Panthers had seen all season. 

 

Tampa was the faster team, the tougher team and they fed off the home crowd. 

 

“I would say on the road, you can expect the home team to have dominance in at least 10 minutes of the game,” Panthers head coach Paul Maurice said. “They’re going to get hot… they scored the goal very early in the second period and that’s what got it cooking for them and for 10 minutes you’re behind the play a little bit.”


Florida was on their heels, holding on for dear life as the home team pushed harder than they all season long. It seemed like the only thing to stop the bleeding was a tv timeout, but the play wouldn’t stop. 

 

A few huge saves from Bobrovsky kept Florida within a goal.

 

The Panthers had one good break, a lucky one almost, but they were able to tie the game and end the Lightning’s storm.

 

7:02 after Motte’s goal, Sam Reinhart ripped a shot over Vasilevskiy, tying things up again at 2-2. 

 

Reinhart’s second of the series was a big one to tie up the game, but the timing was all but perfect as the Lightning looked like a freight train who lost its breaks. 



As the period continued, the game started to settle down as Florida regained their footing.

 

With 3:30 left in the second, Brandon Montour would reclaim the lead for the Panthers with his first of the postseason. 

 

Florida’s fourth line did the bulk of the work — cycling the puck down low and setting up the screen which led to the goal.

 

Kyle Okposo, who drew into the lineup on Thursday due to a few missing Panthers forwards, picked up an assist in his first playoff game since 2016. 

 

“I’ve worn a lot of different hats in my career. I’ve even in the first line, fifth line, healthy scratch, playing 25 minutes. I’ve kind of done a lot of different things,” Okposo said. “I’m going to play to the best of my abilities and be ready to play. I completely accepted my role (on this team).”

 

This fourth-line of Kyle Okposo and Nick Cousins centered by Steven Lorentz wasn’t a line for Game 1 of the playoffs. With both Sam Bennett and Ryan Lomberg out of the lineup, the Panthers had to do some line juggling, adding Lorentz and Okposo to the lineup over the past two games. 

 

They were the difference. 

 

Holding just a one goal lead midway through the third, the fourth-line did it again. 

 

Another hard forecheck forced a puck to the slot and Steven Lorentz didn’t waste his chance to put away his first career playoff goal.

 

Tampa never goes away, it’s been clear all series long, and they wouldn’t go down easy on home ice.

 

With 5:10 left in regulation, Nick Paul beat Bobrovsky, cutting the Lightning’s deficit to one.

 

Florida would hold off the final Tampa attempts winning the game 5-3 after Matthew Tkachuk scored an empty netter — they lead the series 3-0.

 

“We are in a position right now that we would have dreamed about at the beginning of the series,” Tkachuk said. “We’re in a great position. I mean, standing here now and considering to be up 3-0, I’ll gladly take it.”

Panthers Game 3 projected lines and updates from Tampa

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TAMPA — The Florida Panthers had nearly full attendance at morning skate on Thursday ahead of Game 3 against the Lightning.

 

The Panthers come into Tampa holding a 2-0 series lead after winning both home games to begin the first-round. 

 

Here’s tonight’s projected lines and a few lineup updates from Amalie Arena. 

 

Projected Panthers lines

Vladimir Tarasenko — Aleksander Barkov — Sam Reinhart

Carter Verhaeghe — Anton Lundell — Matthew Tkachuk

Eetu Luostarinen — Kevin Stenlund — Evan Rodrigues

Nick Cousins — Steven Lorentz — Kyle Okposo

 

Gustav Forsling — Aaron Ekblad

Niko Mikkola — Brandon Montour

Oliver Ekman-Larsson — Dmitry Kulikov

 

Sergei Bobrovsky (Confirmed Starter)

Anthony Stolarz

 

Projected Lightning lines

Anthony Duclair — Brayden Point — Nikita Kucherov

Brandon Hagel — Anthony Cirelli — Steven Stamkos

Michael Eyssimont — Nicholas Paul — Mitchell Chaffee

Tyler Motte — Luke Glendening

 

Victor Hedman — Darren Raddysh

Matt Dumba — Erik Cernak

Emil Lilleberg — Max Crozier

Calvin de Haan

 

Andrei Vasilevskiy (Projected starter)

Matt Tomkins

 

 

Panthers Updates

Ryan Lomberg (illness) will miss his second straight game. He didn’t skate on Thursday. 

 

“We need a window with him not being around the guys but feeling good,” said head coach Paul Maurice. 


Lomberg did make the trip, but he didn’t fly with the team. 

 

The Panthers announced on Wednesday that Sam Bennett (upper-body), is out “at least a week”.

 

Anton Lundell slides up to center line 2, Kevin Stenlund to line 3 and Steven Lorentz will center the fourth line. 

 

Kyle Okposo will draw into his first playoff game since 2016 when he was with the Islanders. 

 

“The appreciation for the game grows as you get older… They (older players) have a greater appreciation for this,” Maurice said of Okposo. “He’s got this kind of smile that I can’t describe. He’s very excited about the game, he will relish the opportunity.”

 

The least shocking news out of Tampa today was Florida’s starting goalie, it will beSergei Bobrovsky.

 

Puck drop will be 7 p.m. ET on Bally Sports Florida in the Panthers region, Bally Sports Sun in the Lightning region. Nationally the game will be available on TBS and MAX.

Chris Grier isn't a perfect general manager, but he does not deserve to be fired.

Who will the Miami Dolphins pick in the first round?

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We asked some of our Miami Dolphins contributors at Five Reasons Sports to make their predictions for the first round of the NFL Draft, and more.

Catch our coverage on Five Reasons YouTube on Thursday starting at 7:45pm.

 

*****

From @LuisDSung

With the 21st pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins select Xavier Worthy, wide receiver, Texas.

This pick is made with the idea that the Miami Dolphins will, at some point, need to move on from Tyreek Hill. It may not happen within the next couple of years, but a succession plan is a good idea. In the meantime, Worthy is – pun intended – more than worthy to be the team’s 3rd wide receiver in a scheme that values speed and separation ability above all else.
With that said, Miami’s selection of a WR in round one means that it is absolutely imperative that the Dolphins select a guard in the second round, whether they make a trade in the process or not. If I had my choice, Christian Mahogany out of Boston College would be the selection for that slot.
*****
From @OLCoachSmith63
In the first round, the Dolphins take Laiatu Latu, edge, UCLA.
Miami’s roster today needs help getting to the QB. Latu is my #2 edge player and provides help now as well as a runway to move on from Chubb when Phillips gets his big deal. Coleman is my top receiver after the big 3 and was a no-brainer at pick 55. I used future picks to come back into the 3rd round for a versatile, aggressive safety in Bishop to pair with Holland and allow Poyer to be a situational player. After a long break in picks, Bortolini and Jackson are players who line up athletically with Chris Grier’s past picks and provide depth/competition to positions where it’s needed. I wrapped up the draft with a speed receiver in Tulu Griffin who could spell Hill/Waddle while maintaining the timing of the offense. He could also challenge Berrios for the return role.
*****
From @HussamPatel

Dolphins trade down with Arizona to get the #27 pick and receive pick #71 and #162

With the 27th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins select Duke OL Graham Barton. Barton a versatile OL has played Tackle, Guard, and Center. GM Chris Grier stared he loves versatility and Barton can do just that. Barton projects as a Guard at the next levels and fills in a need. If called upon Barton can fill in as a Tackle and Center spots if Armstead/Brewer do get injured. Protecting Tua Tagovailoa is important considering how the OL was decimated by injuries at the end of the season which directly affected the offense later in the season.

*****
From @MikeHernandezDD

OT Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma:

I’ve seen some mock drafts listing the Miami Dolphins taking a passrusher at No. 21 overall, but I’m not buying it. 

The Fins need help on the edge with Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips both expected to miss the start of the season with their major injuries. However, Chubb is on a big-money contract with a major dead money cap hit that doesn’t come down for a couple years, so he’s expected to remain in Miami for the foreseeable future unless a trade happens. And based on general manager Chris Grier’s comments and enthusiasm regarding Phillips recently, the Dolphins are going to exercise the 5th-year option on their 2021 1st-round selection. 

And with Shaq Barrett signed, Cameron Goode returning, and perhaps the disappointing Channing Tindall getting a look at edge duties, Miami should have enough to create a degree of pressure on teams until Chubb and Phillips return to the lineup. 

With all that being said, I’m predicting that Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel select an offensive tackle in the first round. One that still has the ability to play on the left side before the dropoff happens and only right tackles remain. 

Enter Oklahoma’s Tyler Guyton – 6’8, 322lbs, and 34 inch arms.

Guyton is young at 21 years old, but has coveted tools and athleticism that many project can get better with time and more experience. He is a good pass protector (Zero sacks allowed on 335 pass-block snaps in 2023), and can move in space as a lead blocker – two things that McDaniel would cherish in his offense. 

Current left tackle Terron Armstead is on the verge of retiring, and has never played a full season. Guard’s Robert Jones and Isaiah Wynn are penciled in as starters for now but are being paid spot-starter/backup money. Combine that with Grier’s April comments about Armstead and “having a two-year look into the future”. Is it possible the Dolphins could play Guyton at left guard (something Miami did with OT Laremy Tunsil during his rookie season in 2016), until he is ready to become Armstead’s eventual successor? Or at least have Guyton waiting in the wings in case of the likely Armstead injury? 

The Dolphins and star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa are looking to get a longterm contract done this offseason, but we all know Tua isn’t likely to keep up the statistical success if he doesn’t have adequate protection. Protecting your franchise quarterback should be the next item on the list after locking him up. Guyton could be the future solution. 

Mel Kiper links Guyton to the Cowboys in his Mock Draft, and if there is anything we know about the Cowboys, it’s that they know how to find offensive lineman. Ravens writers also have their eye on him. The Dolphins can snatch Guyton before the Cowboys or Ravens have a chance to grab him. 

If you are worried about Guyton being too raw or inexperienced, that’s a valid concern. But remember that Miami’s Austin Jackson was once drafted as a raw OT prospect in 2020, and he developed into a solid right tackle and signed a 3-year extension with the team. So there is hope in that area.

Here are some evaluations on Tyler Guyton:

“Ascending tackle prospect with the traits and tape to project a bright future as a high-level pass protector in the league. Guyton has battled injuries and had limited reps coming over from TCU after the 2021 season, but his flashes have been complemented by increasing consistency. He plays with a high center of gravity and needs to get stronger, but leveraged hand strikes can help overcome those concerns. He should continue to get better as a run blocker but might never shine in that department. Guyton’s value comes with his pass protection, as he has the length, feet and body control to become a human roadblock. He should become a talented starter at either tackle position.” – Lance Zierlein, NFL Analyst.

“Overall, Guyton is a higher-level athlete with the elite physical tools you look for, showing snapshots of dominance with his technique and easy, fluid movement in the run game and pass protection. Guyton glided out of his two-point stance in pass protection with an efficient and comfortable kick slide. He has the balance, body control and range to close down the edge, yet he also has the firm base to anchor and control the speed-to-power pass rush. Guyton is a strong prospect, but you must understand his lack of experience position will likely mean that he needs coaching and development before he can become a full-time starter. Given that Guyton has only one year of starting experience and given his size, length and movement, it would not surprise me if NFL teams saw him as a LT.” – Greg Cosell, the 33rd Team

 

 

5 Things You Should Know As A Beginner At Basketball Betting

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Basketball is considered one of the elite sports showcasing top athletes performing at the peak of their physical prowess. One of the most physically demanding sports, basketball has evolved into a game loved by millions across the globe. Although its popularity is the highest in the United States and Europe, other continents also find basketball a top sport. The game of basketball is fun to watch due to its end-to-end nature and fast-paced gameplay. Substituting rules allow players to be subbed in and out during the game, which makes for excellent viewing.

While other sports, such as football and baseball, are popular with betting enthusiasts, basketball is slowly becoming a popular alternative for betters. Many betting agencies are now actively aiding their customers in placing bets on popular leagues such as the NBA and other basketball contests, vying for the top basketball trophies available. With its fast-paced gameplay and constantly changing team positions, basketball can draw in many betting enthusiasts. The odds of spectacular matches and surprise results are high, making the betting even more lucrative.

Betting irresponsibly can have many negative implications, and for this reason, you must familiarize yourself with all the prerequisites and safe-betting tips available. These tips will help you place your bets responsibly and will not break your bank. 

  • Understand the Basics

First, familiarize yourself with the basics of betting and placing bets. While it is essential to know what type of bets there are and at what phase in the game you can place the bet, you must get yourself acquainted with the game of basketball itself. If you don’t understand the game, you will place your bets in the dark. Ensure that you know all the rules of the game and what sort of penalties, points, and other rules are present.

Only after this detailed knowledge can you place bets in an informed manner. You can ignore this tip if you think you are lucky and place the bet without any knowledge. Chances are you will win some, but the higher probability is that you will lose big time. Thus, knowing the game inside can help you place informed bets with higher chances of turning into mega wins.

  • Learn Different Bet Types

Another thing you should be aware of is the different types of bets available. Different betting agencies have different specialties, and thus, you can place certain types of bets on one platform that you may not place on another. Knowing which type of betting is your strong suit is also important when placing bets to increase your chances of winning. For example, there are bet types such as ‘money lines,’ which are simple as you have to predict the winner, and then there are ‘winner margin’ bets where you need to predict the score margins of the two teams at the end. These two examples represent the simpler and easier-to-understand bets; however, you can place more complex bets for higher gains, but make sure you understand the bets before placing them.

  • Do Your Research

Winning at betting requires considerable research. While the notion that luck plays a key role in your betting winnings, it is clear now that extensive research can increase your odds considerably. The modern world, filled with data and statistics on each player and team, has become a treasure trove for betting enthusiasts. Individuals with a keen eye for data analytics can exploit this area by analyzing different teams’ performances and predicting the in-form team and in-form players. Other relevant performance indicators that could affect the game’s outcome can also be found through data, resulting in more informed betting and higher chances of winning. 

  • Manage Your Bankroll

Another key feature that betting individuals often take for granted is the management of their bankroll. Excellent bankroll management is crucial for long-term success in betting and ensuring you don’t lose your hard-earned savings. For this reason, it is an absolute must that you set out a budget for your betting adventures. Ensure you set this budget after keeping aside the money needed to run your house and daily expenses. After setting out the budget, another crucial aspect is to abide by this budget and don’t push yourself when you have spent your allotted budget. 

  • Shop for the Best Odds

With the world of information upon us, you must use the available information well. Different sports betting lines offer different odds for a certain game or bet. This means you have better odds of winning the bets you want to place on a certain sporting website. It would be best to take your time when placing a bet; take stock of all available options to get the highest return.

It is important to consider the above factors before placing bets. Extensive research about the type of bet, the betting agency you want to place a bet at, and the team competing against can set you apart from an average betting individual.

Verhaeghe scores OT winner, Panthers take 2-0 series lead

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SUNRISE — Tuesday night’s Game 2 between the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning will go down as another all-time playoff game between the Sunshine State’s two teams. 

 

Carter Verhaeghe scored the game winner in overtime — the fifth playoff OT winner of his career (tied for third most all-time) — as the Panthers walked out of Amerant Bank Arena with a 3-2 win.

 

“He’s got the clutch gene. He’s born with it man,” Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad said of Verhaeghe. “You say that but it’s a lot of years of hard work… when you’re with him every day and see the work ethic he puts in, there’s no surprise at all.”

 

Florida took care of business at home, winning both Games 1 and 2, and will take a 2-0 series lead to Tampa. 

 

Florida dominated the opening frame — taking a 2-0 lead with goals from Sam Bennett and Vladimir Tarasenko.

 


Like they did on Sunday, the Panthers didn’t give up too many chances to the lightning in the first period — outshooting them 13-3 going into the intermission. ‘

 

As the Panthers controlled the game in the first, the Lightning, trailing in the series and in the game, played their best period of the series in the second. 

 

Tampa scored twice in the opening six minutes of the period, with goals from Brayden Point and Steven Stamkos — quickly erasing the two-goal hole they put themselves in. 

 

Entering the series, it was blatantly obvious that both teams’ have elite goaltending and on Tuesday, that couldn’t be more than true.

 

With 5:57 left in the second, Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky made possibly one of the best saves in playoff history — at the very least in Panthers history. 

 

Lightning defenseman Matt Dumba had about as wide open of a net as you possibly could have. 

 

Shooting from just a few feet away, Dumba should have made it a 3-2 game. Instead, he was robbed by a sprawling Bobrovsky, who spun his entire body around to make the save with his forearm. 

 

“That was unbelievable,” Panthers defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson said. “We know that he can make those saves, but that was something else.”

 

On the other end, Tampa’s own Vezina winning goalie, Andrei Vasilevskiy once again kept his team in the game with 34 saves.

 

Thanks to the spectacular goaltending, regulation wouldn’t be enough to find a winner on Tuesday.

 

“Well, you’re looking at two of the best,” Lightning head coach Jon Cooper spoke of the two goalies. “You gotta tip your hat to him (Bobrovsky). I thought the biggest saves were the two Vasy made after that save, which at the time could’ve sunk us.”

 

It didn’t take the Panthers long to wrap up the game once overtime came around. Verhaeghe scored the game winner just 2:59 into the first overtime. The Lightning weren’t able to get a shot on goal in the short extra period.

 

 

Game 3 will be on Thursday, April 25 at 7 p.m. ET as the series shifts across the state to Tampa.

 

Panthers Notes 

Sam Bennett left the game in the second period with an injury (upper-body) and did not return. There won’t be any update on his status until Wednesday

 

Vladimir Tarasenko scored his 45th career playoff goal

 

This was the first overtime game of any series in this year’s playoffs

Upcycling Sports Jerseys: Transforming Athletic Gear for Everyday Wear

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Sports jerseys hold a special place in the hearts of fans and athletes alike, symbolizing team spirit, camaraderie, and a shared love for the game. However, when jerseys are no longer in use or have become worn out, they often end up collecting dust in closets or drawers. Instead of letting these cherished garments go to waste, consider upcycling them into stylish, functional pieces for everyday wear. There are countless creative ways to repurpose sports jerseys and give them new life, from T-shirt dresses to tote bags.

 

T-shirt Dresses:

Transform oversized sports jerseys into trendy T-shirt dresses that are perfect for casual outings or lounging at home. Start by cutting the jersey to the desired length, then add elastic or a drawstring waistband to cinch the waist and create a flattering silhouette. Pair your T-shirt dress with sneakers and a denim jacket for an effortlessly chic look that combines sporty and streetwear aesthetics.

Athletic Crop Tops:

Turn old sports jerseys into stylish crop tops that are ideal for workouts, yoga sessions, or athleisure ensembles. Cut the jersey along the bottom hem to shorten it to your desired length, then hem the edges to prevent fraying. Customize your crop top by adding cutouts, lace-up details, or decorative stitching for added flair. Pair with high-waisted leggings or joggers for a sporty yet fashionable outfit that’s perfect for the gym or running errands.

Blankets:

Repurpose old sports jerseys into cozy blankets that keep you warm while showcasing your team spirit. Specialist companies make blankets made from clothes by cutting the jerseys into squares including any iconic logos or emblems. Whether draped over your couch or spread out on your bed, a jersey blanket adds a nostalgic touch to your home decor while keeping you snug and comfortable.

Varsity Jackets:

Give classic varsity jackets a modern twist by upcycling sports jerseys into the body and sleeve panels. Cut the jersey into sections and sew them together to create the base of the jacket, then add ribbed cuffs, collar, and hem for a polished finish. Customize your varsity jacket with patches, embroidery, or appliques to showcase your team pride or personal style. Layer over a basic T-shirt and jeans for a timeless, effortlessly cool look that pays homage to athletic heritage.

Tote Bags:

Repurpose old sports jerseys into eco-friendly tote bags perfect for grocery shopping, beach trips, or everyday essentials. Cut the jersey into large rectangles for the body of the bag, then sew the sides and bottom together to form the tote shape. Add sturdy straps made from webbing, or repurpose the jersey sleeves for a unique twist. Embellish your tote bag with team logos, patches, or slogans for a personalized touch that celebrates your love for the game.

Headbands and Scrunchies:

Create stylish accessories using scraps of fabric from old sports jerseys. Cut strips of jersey fabric and sew them into headbands or scrunchies for a playful and practical addition to your everyday wardrobe. Mix and match colors and patterns to create unique combinations that complement your outfits. Whether you’re hitting the gym or running errands, these DIY accessories add a touch of sporty flair to any ensemble.

Conclusion:

Upcycling sports jerseys into everyday wear breathes new life into cherished garments and promotes sustainability and creativity. The possibilities for repurposing jerseys are endless, from T-shirt dresses to tote bags. By embracing DIY projects and innovative design techniques, you can transform old jerseys into stylish and functional pieces that reflect your personal style and love for the game.

Panthers take 1-0 series lead, defeat Lightning in Game 1

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SUNRISE — The Battle of Florida, playoff edition, was back for volume three as the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning kicked off the first-round of their playoff series.

 

Game 1 went pretty much how you’d expect it.  Plenty of hits, not a lot of wiggle room for either side and a one goal final. 

 

Matthew Tkachuk had the game winner as the Panthers took Game 1 by a score of 3-2.

 

With the win, the Panthers hold a 1-0 lead in the first-round for the first time since 1997. They had seven playoff appearances between 1997 and their win today.

 

Florida’s identity this season has revolved around their ability to play a fast and heavy game. When the puck dropped on Sunday, the Panthers tilted the ice from the jump — pressuring the Lightning with a hard hitting forecheck.

 

The Panthers broke the deadlock in the series and the man who lit the lamp all season was the one to do it.

 

6:17 into the first, Sam Reinhart deflected a Gustav Forsling point shot past Andrei Vasilevskiy  for his 12th career playoff goal,  giving the Panthers a 1-0 lead. 

 

“I really liked our energy the first 10-15 minutes. We kept it simple,” Reinhart said. “We were playing north, we were on the puck, getting it back… it was a good hockey game.”

 

Reinhart lead the Panthers in scoring during the regular season (57,37, 94). 

 

The Panthers defense prevented the Lightning from getting a shot on goal until nearly 16 minutes into the game, but once they got going — the tide started to turn. 

 

After winning an offensive zone faceoff, the Lightning fired three shots on Sergei Bobrovsky. The Panthers netminder stopped the first two shots before Brandon Hagel cleaned up the final rebound to tie the game at 1-1 with 3:56 left in the opening period. 

 

With the scored tied going into the second period, neither team really had an edge over the other. 

 

The middle frame was fairly consistent with that of the first. There weren’t too many chances for either side to open up the ice and the goaltending remained rock solid. 

 

Both teams went to the power play, but the opposition’s penalty killing units locked it down in front of the cage. 

 

When the second period came to a close, the score remained the same at 1-1. While there was a combined total of just 24 shots after 40 minutes of play, the teams had 77 total hits entering the third period. The total hits on the day was 109. 

 

“Everybody got a hit, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that.” Matthew Tkachuk said as he looked at the stat sheet. “Somebody had 10 (Matt Dumba — Tampa). Yea, lots of hits.”

 

All season when the Panthers were looking for a goal in the third period, the man to call was Carter Verhaeghe. 

 

Verhaeghe led the team in the regular season with 19 goals in the third period. 

 

He was called on Sunday — he answered.

 

With the Panthers on a carry over powerplay to start the third, Verhaeghe buried the go-ahead goal just 58 seconds into the period. Aleksander Barkov had the primary assist on what was Verhaeghe’s 16th career playoff goal — all of which came with the Panthers. 

 

“I didn’t see the pass, it just hit my stick,” Verhaeghe said on Barkov’s assist. “Barky can pass the puck, so put it on Barky’s stick.”

 

As the final minutes of regulation dwindled down, the score remained 2-1, so Tampa pulled the goalie with a little over three minutes to go in the game. 

 

Matthew Tkachuk scored on the empty net to give Florida a 3-1 lead with 2:05 remaining in the game — but it wasn’t over yet.

 

Tampa went to the power play with 1:11 left. 

 

The Lightning once again pulled the goalie — going on a 6-on-4. Steven Stamkos scored from his usual off-wing powerplay spot to make it a one-goal game — but with just 10 seconds 


Florida held on for the  3-2 win and took a 1-0 series lead at home — something they couldn’t do in the previous two playoff meetings with Tampa.

 

“The way I kind of look at this, it’s an even game,” Panthers head coach Paul Maurice said. “[A] Turn of the puck one way or another, let’s get comfortable with that. The whole team’s gonna work their asses off for an inch of ice.” 

 

Game 2 will be on Tuesday  at 7:30 p.m. in Sunrise.

2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Panthers — Lightning First-Round Schedule

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The National Hockey League has released the full schedule for the first-round of the 2024 Stanley Stanley Cup Playoffs. 

 

On Sunday, April 21 at 12:30 p.m. ET, the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning will kick off game 1 of their series in Sunrise. 

 

As the Atlantic Division winners, the Panthers will have home-ice advantage.

 

The two sides played eachother in both the 2021 and 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Tampa won both times as the lower seeded team, with the most recent being a four-game sweep in the second-round. 

 

Panthers — Lightning Schedule 

 

Game 1 – Lightning @ Panthers — Sunday, April 21, 12:30 p.m. ET — ESPN, SN, TVAS

 

Game 2 – Lightning @ Panthers — Tuesday, April 23,  7:30 p.m. ET — ESPN2, SN360, TVAS

 

Game 3 –  Panthers @ Lightning —   Thursday, April 25,  7 p.m. ET — TBS, MAX, SN, TVAS 

 

Game 4 – Panthers @ Lightning —    Saturday, April 27,  5 p.m. ET — TBS, truTV, MAX, SNE, SNW, SNP, TVAS

 

Game 5* – Lightning @ Panthers —    Monday, April 29,  TBD

 

Game 6* – Panthers @ Lightning  —   Wednesday, May 1,  TBD

 

Game 7*-  Lightning @ Panthers —    Saturday, May 4,   TBD

 

*If necessary 

 

The winner of the Panthers — Lightning series will move on to face the winner of the Bruins — Maple Leafs series. 

 

All NHL Playoff Matchups

 

EAST:

New York Rangers (M1) vs. Washington Capitals (WC2)

Carolina Hurricanes (M2) vs New York Islanders (M3)

 

Florida Panthers (A1) vs Tampa Bay Lightning (WC1)

 

Boston Bruins (A2) vs Toronto Maple Leafs (A3)

 

WEST:

Vancouver Canucks (P1) vs Nashville Predators (WC1)

 

Edmonton Oilers (P2) vs Los Angeles Kings (P3)

 

Dallas Stars (C1) vs Vegas Golden Knights (WC2)

 

Winnipeg Jets (C2) vs Colorado Avalanche (C3)

Fantasy Hockey Sleepers and Breakout Candidates from the Florida Panthers

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The Florida Panthers were a force to be reckoned with last season. Their high-octane offense and strong performances from young players make them a team to watch in fantasy hockey. But with established stars like Aleksander Barkov often going in the early rounds, the Panthers are looking to solidify their roster. 

 

Bounce Back Potential: Sam Bennett

While not necessarily a sleeper, Sam Bennett could see a significant increase in fantasy value in 2023-24. Often overshadowed by linemates Matthew Tkachuk and Carter Verhaeghe, Bennett quietly put together a strong season. He ranked third on the Panthers in 5-on-5 goals per 60 minutes, showcasing his offensive capabilities.  

 

Underrated in fantasy, Bennett provides multi-category value with hits and shots on goal, making him a late-round steal. With a full season alongside proven scorers like Tkachuk and Verhaeghe, Bennett could see a jump in points and solidify himself as a valuable fantasy asset.

Rising Star: Anton Lundell

The 2020 first-round pick, Anton Lundell, is poised for a breakout season. After a promising rookie campaign with 44 points in 65 games, Lundell saw a slight dip in production last year.  However, this could be attributed to a sophomore slump rather than a lack of talent. Lundell possesses the skillset to be a top-six forward, and many believe 2023-24 will be his breakout year.  

 

With the Panthers potentially looking to shake up their line combinations after last season’s playoff disappointment, Lundell could find himself playing alongside elite scorers, boosting his offensive output.  Keep an eye on Lundell in the middle rounds of your draft; his well-rounded skillset and potential for increased ice time make him a player with significant upside.

Under-the-Radar Prospect: Grigori Denisenko

For fantasy players seeking a deep sleeper, Grigori Denisenko is an intriguing option. The 2018 first-round pick hasn’t yet become a regular at the NHL level, but this season could be his chance to shine.  Denisenko has impressed in the AHL, showcasing his offensive talent with strong point totals.  

 

The Panthers are expected to give him more opportunities at the NHL level, and with the right role, Denisenko could finally break out.  He’s a skilled forward with the potential to be a middle-six winger, contributing goals, assists, and potentially even power-play time. Given his limited NHL experience, Denisenko is a high-risk, high-reward pick. But for those willing to gamble on his talent, he could be a late-round gem who provides valuable depth to your fantasy team.

 

Moreover, fans who are looking to bet on NHL games can visit the best betting sites for information regarding the favorites and underdogs. These sites often provide in-depth analysis and expert opinions on player performance and fantasy value. These resources can help fantasy hockey fans uncover hidden gems and potential breakout stars within the Panthers’ roster.

Defensemen to Watch: MacKenzie Weegar and Josh Mahura

While the Panthers’ offense rightfully steals the spotlight, their defensemen shouldn’t be completely ignored in fantasy drafts. MacKenzie Weegar is a steady contributor on the blue line, consistently scoring points and contributing hits and blocks. Weegar could see an increase in power-play time this season, further boosting his fantasy value.  

 

Another name to watch is Josh Mahura. The young defenseman impressed in limited action last season and could see an expanded role in 2023-24. If Mahura can earn more ice time and power-play opportunities, he could become a valuable source of peripheral stats for fantasy managers.

Factors to Consider

As the Florida Panthers gear up for the upcoming season, fantasy hockey enthusiasts should keep an eye on several key factors. First, the team may tinker with its line combinations early on, especially during training camp. 

 

This experimentation could lead to new player pairings, so staying updated with the latest news is essential to see how these lines evolve. Skaters who find themselves alongside established scorers like Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk could see a boost in their fantasy value due to the increased likelihood of accruing points.

 

Another critical aspect to monitor is power-play opportunities. Success in fantasy hockey often hinges on players receiving significant power-play time. Keep closely monitoring which players are deployed on the Panthers’ power-play units during the preseason and early regular season. Those who consistently see action with the man advantage are poised to have a notable advantage in terms of fantasy point production.

 

Additionally, the coaching change in Florida adds an element of intrigue. With Paul Maurice taking the helm as the new head coach, the team’s playing style may be adjusted. 

 

While Maurice is expected to maintain the Panthers’ offensive flair, observing how he utilizes certain players could provide valuable insights for fantasy hockey managers. Understanding Maurice’s strategies and player deployments could help make informed decisions when managing fantasy rosters throughout the season.

Final Thoughts

The Florida Panthers boast a deep and talented roster, offering fantasy managers various options beyond the usual star picks. By keeping an eye on players poised for a bounce-back season like Sam Bennett, youngsters on the rise like Anton Lundell and Grigori Denisenko, and underrated defensemen like Josh Mahura, fans can snag valuable contributors who can propel your fantasy team to the top.

Skyforce Report: The Call-Ups during a successful season

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The Skyforce season is over after losing to the Oklahoma City Blue in the Western Conference Semifinals of the G League playoffs. This concludes a fabulous campaign from the Skyforce overall. They started the G League regular season 9-0 and used that to power them to the number two seed in the Western Conference. Most notably, there were five players on the team to get NBA deals. This was a stacked roster to start the year and like any good G League team, they had a lot of change. The change was mostly due to players getting deals. Let’s take a look at some of the players and their accomplishments this year.

 

Alondes Williams

Alondes Williams started the year with a great Heat camp and many were hoping he would get the last Heat roster spot. Unfortunately, Williams did not get the last spot and started the year with a standard G League contract. He quickly let everyone know that his NBA deal was coming soon though.  

 

When a two-way spot opened up with the Miami Heat, Williams was among the favorites to receive the deal. Quickly the Heat signed Williams, and this was because of his fast improvement and his polish on the offensive end. He is a flat-out bucket-getter and can score points in a hurry, but that is not all he can do. Williams can also dish out assists, making him an all-around offensive player who has the potential to be a long-time NBA player. Williams finished the year winning the Most Improved Player for the G League, which is quite an award to win in a league focused on development.  Alondes Williams has put his name on the map for Miami Heat fans, now he is trying to make sure no one forgets his name.

 

Jamaree Bouyea, Drew Peterson, and Justin Champagnie. 

 

Bouyea, Peterson, and Champagnie all received two-way contracts with other NBA teams this year and they all did it in different ways. 

 

Peterson got his first with the Boston Celtics after being a do-it-all guy for the Skyforce. Anyone who has followed my content knows how much I love Peterson. He just plays basketball the right way. Even though he’s in the Celtics organization, I still love him just as much. He is the ultimate plug-and-play player. There is not a more versatile player in the G League than Peterson

 

Justin Champagnie signed a 10-day deal with the Washington Wizards and then parlayed that into a two-way contract. Champagnie is a guard/forward that can get points in a hurry. Once he is hot there is no stopping him, especially from three. He invites contact and excels at driving, and maybe the best thing he did with the Skyforce was his rebounding from the guard/forward position. He was an offensive catalyst that could win any game by himself on any given night. 

 

Jamaree Bouyea signed a two-way contract with the San Antonio Spurs, and he earned this contract by being an excellent point guard in all facets of the game. In my opinion, Bouyea was the most important player on the Skyforce this season. Bouyea stuffed the stat sheet on the offensive and defensive end. He also was making sure guys were lined up correctly, and that the offense was running smoothly. Bouyea also knew when the team needed him to score or when they needed him to facilitate and set up other scores. He was a perfect fit for the Skyforce. 

 

Malik Williams 

 

Malik Williams signed a 10-day contract with the Toronto Raptors right before the G League playoffs, which was a huge blow to the Skyforce. Williams was a dominant rebounder and was always reliable down low. He was also willing to space out and shoot the three. Williams has a smooth shooting motion that made him trustworthy. Outside of Orlando Robinson, Malik Williams was by far the best center the Skyforce had this year. Another cool note was that Williams played against the Miami Heat in the final two games of the regular season. We will continue to keep our fingers crossed that Williams gets a longer NBA deal soon.