The Florida Panthers will face off against the Toronto Maple Leafs in round two of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
On Wednesday, Florida wrapped up business in its first round series with the Tampa Bay Lightning, taking down the cross-state opponent in just five games — with a 6-3 victory in the clinching series clinching Game 5.
Toronto defeated the Ottawa Senators in six games, with a 4-2 win in Game 6 on Thursday night to punch its ticket to round two for just the second time since 2004.
This is the second time the Panthers and Leafs will meet in the playoffs; Florida won the only previous meeting in 2023, defeating Toronto in five games of the second round. 10 members of the current Panthers team also played in that series.
With the Leafs being the higher seed as the Atlantic Division champions, the first two games of the series will be in Toronto.
There will be some familiarity when the two teams meet. Three former Panthers — and members of the 2024 Stanley Cup winning team — are currently with the Leafs: Steven Lorentz, Oliver Ekman-Larsson and starting goaltender Anthony Stolarz.
Dates and start times for the series are to be determined.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-2208657483.jpg8211024Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-05-01 21:33:042025-05-01 21:33:04Florida Panthers Will Face Toronto Maple Leafs in Second Round of Stanley Cup Playoffs
The Kentucky Derby is just around the corner, and excitement is building for the 151st running at Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” this iconic race draws fans from around the globe, all eager to see which three-year-old thoroughbred will claim the coveted garland of roses.
This year’s field is packed with talent. Journalism leads the pack as the morning-line favorite at 3-1 odds, followed closely by Sovereignty at 5-1 and Sandman at 6-1. Other notable contenders include Rodriguez and Burnham Square, both sitting at 12-1 odds. The race is set to start at 6:57 p.m. ET, with coverage available on NBC, Peacock, and USA Network .
In this article, we’ll explore five key factors that influence the 2025 Kentucky Derby odds and how you can interpret them to make informed betting decisions.
1. Watch for Betting Movement
The 2025 Kentucky Derby odds on many sportsbooks and platforms can change rapidly in the lead-up to race day. A horse that sees heavy betting will often experience a drop in its odds. This usually reflects growing confidence from the public or professionals. If a lesser-known contender starts gaining attention, that shift might indicate strong workouts, inside buzz, or new analysis that’s influencing how people place their bets.
Not all movement in the odds carries equal weight. A sharp drop might follow a big bet from an expert or syndicate. Some horses also attract casual bettors because of name recognition or hype. Watching these changes helps you spot trends and gauge where momentum is building. Keeping track of late movement, especially the night before or race morning, can reveal unexpected betting favorites.
2. Analyze Recent Performances
Past race results often give clear hints about how a horse might handle the Derby. Look at their last few starts, especially in major prep races like the Florida Derby or the Blue Grass Stakes. Horses that finish strong or hold their own against tough competition often carry that form forward. A consistent record across different tracks also suggests good adaptability.
It’s not just about winning. A horse that finishes second or third while racing wide or getting bumped might actually show more grit than a clean winner. Take note of who they raced against and how the race unfolded. Finishing well despite a poor trip can indicate that a horse is ready for the step up in class that the Derby demands.
3. Study Track Conditions
The weather can change everything. Some horses perform better on dry dirt, while others handle mud or a wet track with ease. Check past performances under similar conditions to see how each horse reacts. A sudden rain shower on Derby Day might benefit a horse that’s been solid in the slop, which can make a big difference in how the race unfolds.
The 2025 Kentucky Derby odds may shift once the weather forecast becomes more certain. If rain is likely, bettors often favor proven mudders. Trainers and jockeys also make adjustments based on track condition, which affects strategy. A speed horse might struggle if the surface is tiring or sticky. Keep this factor in mind when evaluating the field closer to race time.
4. Evaluate Jockey and Trainer Combinations
Some pairings just click. When a jockey and trainer have a strong history together, it often leads to better results. Certain jockeys also ride particularly well at Churchill Downs, using experience to navigate the crowded field. A confident ride in the Derby can mean the difference between winning and finishing mid-pack, especially when the pace or positioning gets tricky.
Trainers also play a big role in how prepared a horse is on race day. The Kentucky Derby is no ordinary race, and experienced trainers know how to peak at the right time. If a trainer has a solid Derby track record, it often builds trust among bettors. Pair that with a smart jockey, and the odds can tighten quickly in response.
5. Compare Running Styles
Each horse brings a unique style to the starting gate. Some break quickly and set the pace, while others prefer to settle at the back and make a late run. Knowing how a horse typically runs helps predict how it might perform depending on the race setup. In a field with several front-runners, a closer could have an advantage as the leaders tire.
Race shape matters more than people think. If one horse gets an easy lead, it might stay in front the entire way. But when multiple horses fight for the lead early, the pace can become too fast, setting up a strong finisher for a late move. Look at how the styles match up across the field before finalizing your pick.
Final Reminders Before You Bet
Do your homework. Don’t just rely on hype or the favorite everyone’s talking about. Check recent races, follow the weather, and watch how the odds shift in the final hours. Look at how each horse runs and who’s in the saddle. A little research goes a long way. The more you dig in, the better your shot at picking a real contender.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/pexels-james-anthony-169333604-11341116.jpg26263911Five Reasonshttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgFive Reasons2025-05-01 21:14:472025-05-01 21:14:47Reading the 2025 Kentucky Derby Odds: What Factors Affect It?
The environment of sports bars in Palm Beach has changed considerably in recent years. What used to be simple hangout places where fans watched games over wings and beer have turned into state-of-the-art centers of entertainment that blur the line between passive spectator and active participant. Palm Beach County sports bars are increasingly forming joint ventures with betting apps, creating a new blended experience that interacts with customers in several ways during the game-day frenzy.
The New Sports Viewing Experience
The collaboration between Palm Beach sports bars and betting apps evidencia the continuing development of sports entertainment. Customers walking into places like The Twisted Lime or Duffy’s Sports Grill during the peak of a major game not only see the multi-contested screens showing the action but also have other betting kiosks, QR codes placed on tables that link directly to the most sought after betting apps, and so much more. Such collaborations are what insiders in the industry refer to as “second screen attention” that captures and retains the attention of sports fans.
These partnerships with betting apps seem to be default options for other forms of entertainment for sports fans who used to gamble in online casinos. The same interactivity which made online casino gaming interesting works well for sports betting, now enhanced by fandom. Bar owners have observed this crossover demographic as highly profitable because these patrons usually come for a longer period and spend more on food and drinks.
How The Partnerships Work
These partnerships have different modalities from one venue to the other. Some bars have exclusive deals with one betting app, while others provide clients with multiple app options. The limitation most commonly found is that bars get remunerated by commission for new sign-ups from their venue or a percentage of wagers placed during their stay.
We noted a 35% spike in weekend revenue in conjunction with our partnership with BetRivers, stated Michael Riordan, proprietor of The Sports Page Bar & Grill in Jupiter. People arrive earlier to put in their wagers before the games start and remain until the final whistle to find out if they’ve won.
The technical setup has been surprisingly easy. Most partnerships include internet connections specifically designed for particular betting apps, portable center devices for customers without mobile phones, and personnel trained to walk customers through account creation, account navigation, and platform usage.
Impact on Local Business and Culture
The impact on the hospitality industry in Palm Beach has been significant. Sports bars that have adopted these partnerships are noting improved traffic, increased average duration of visits per customer, and greater average spend per visit. The historically quiet slow-busy periods between major action and in-game transport cut commercial breaks of patrons is no longer quiet time as customers use in-game betting opportunities.
There is a cultural aspect to this too. These partnerships have fundamentally changed sports bars from being places where fans passively watch games on large screens to active places where fans can truly socialize. Complete strangers are now overheard talking over shared bets that with the collective exuberance goes beyond rooting for the same team.
I’ve had more networking opportunities in the last six months than I have in the last three years, noted Tamara Lewis, a familiar face at Miller’s Ale House in Palm Beach Gardens. “Wagering a small amount instantly turns strangers into friends.
Regulatory Considerations and Challenges
These partnerships have not come together without challenges. The diverse gambling laws in Florida create a barrier in the state’s navigation system, while bars attempt to strike a balance between marketing these partnerships and not breaching gambling advertisement undertakings.
Training staff has emerged as one of the greatest hurdles. Everyone from bartenders to servers has to deal with more than just beer and menu items, including odds, betting systems, in-app troubleshooting, and strategy discussions.
Final Words
The merging of betting apps within Palm Beach sports bars goes beyond business advancement; it deeply impacts how fans engage with sports. With the pace at which technology advances today, we are bound to see an increase in innovation, especially alongside the possibility of more lenient gambling regulations.
For auction patrons, the sports bar experience has breath functions like sports scheduling. At the same time, business owners suggested newer streams of revenue, and it seems the winning play was merging America’s sports, technology, innovation, and hospitality to a great sports bar.
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Looking for a fun and unique way to elevate your next event in 2025? The refreshing and vibrant choice for any celebration is green party drinks. Whether you’re hosting a birthday bash, a New Year’s Eve gathering, or a festive summer party, green drinks instantly create an exciting and energetic atmosphere. By adding Mitra9 kratom to your party drinks, you’re not just enhancing the flavor but also potentially boosting the experience. Known for its high-quality kratom products, Mitra9 brings something extra to the table. In this article, we’ll explore why green drinks and Mitra9 are a perfect match for your next event.
Why Choose Green Party Drinks From Mitra9?
Green is a color often associated with energy, vitality, and growth. From cocktails to mocktails, green drinks pop visually and bring a fresh, vibrant vibe to your party. Whether you’re aiming for a tropical, zesty feel or a calming, minty twist, green drinks are versatile and can suit any type of celebration.
Adding Mitra9 kratom to your drinks enhances the experience by providing potential benefits like increased focus, energy, and relaxation, depending on the type of kratom product you choose. The versatility of Mitra9’s kratom products – such as powders, extracts, and capsules – makes them easy to incorporate into a wide variety of green beverages, making them an ideal addition to your party drink menu.
The Benefits Of Mitra9 In Green Party Drinks
When you add Mitra9 to your green party drinks, you bring more than just great taste to the party. Here are a few reasons why Mitra9 kratom is the perfect companion to your drinks:
Natural Energy: Mitra9 kratom can offer a boost of natural energy, perfect for keeping guests lively and engaged throughout your event.
Mood Enhancement: Kratom may help enhance mood, making your party atmosphere even more enjoyable.
Increased Focus and Clarity: Certain kratom types are known to enhance focus, helping individuals stay sharp and engaged during conversations and activities.
Versatility: Mitra9 products come in various forms, making it easy to choose the right kratom for your drinks, whether you prefer powder, liquid extracts, or capsules.
Premium Quality: Mitra9 kratom undergoes third-party testing to ensure it’s potent, safe, and of the highest quality, so you can confidently serve your guests.
Hosting Events In 2025? Here’s Why Mitra9 Should Be On The Menu
Whether you’re a party host, brand partner, or event planner, Mitra9 helps you turn ordinary drinks into conversation starters. Hosting a party is fun, but building something bigger? That’s the next level—and Mitra9 can help you grow while you serve.
1. Become a wholesaler
If you’re throwing regular events, running a local bar, or curating pop-up parties, Mitra9’s wholesale program is a game-changer. Gain access to bulk pricing and high-quality inventory, become a kratom drink wholesaler that keeps your costs low and your drinks top-tier.
2. Simple wholesaler payment options
Mitra9 makes it easy to manage your business with flexible wholesaler payment options. No headaches. It’s a convenient and secure payment method, allowing you to focus on building a better experience for your customers or guests.
3. Become an influencer
Do you love creating content around party life, lifestyle, or health? Join the Mitra9 Influencer Program and start sharing what you love, with perks. You get exclusive offers, free products, and the chance to be part of a fast-growing kratom community.
4. Join the affiliate program
Want to turn your passion for green party drinks into passive income? The Mitra9 Affiliate Program is built for creators, hosts, and entrepreneurs who love sharing good things. Promote Mitra9, earn a commission, and help others discover a better way to enjoy their events.
Green Drinks – More Than Just A Trend
Green drinks are more than just a fun trend. They symbolize health, growth, and renewal, making them an ideal choice for any event in 2025. Combining them with Mitra9 creates something visually appealing and provides your guests with an experience that could boost energy or relaxation.
From festive cocktails to refreshing mocktails, the possibilities are endless. Whether you opt for a zesty green lemonade or a tropical green punch, there’s no limit to the creativity you can bring to the drink menu. With the addition of Mitra9, you can be sure to offer something truly unique.
Perfect for 2025 events
Whether you’re planning a small, intimate gathering or a large, festive celebration, incorporating Mitra9 kratom into your green party drinks will elevate the experience. Imagine serving drinks that not only look amazing but might also offer your guests a boost of energy and relaxation. With Mitra9, you can give your party the unique twist it needs to stand out from the crowd.
Why Mitra9?
Mitra9 stands out in the world of kratom for its commitment to quality, safety, and potency. Whether you’re looking for kratom powder to mix into drinks or liquid extracts for a more substantial effect, Mitra9 provides reliable, lab-tested products.
When you choose Mitra9 for your green party drinks, you’re ensuring that you’re using a trusted brand that prioritizes the purity of its kratom. Plus, with a range of options available, it’s easy to customize your drinks to meet the needs of your guests.
Here’s why Mitra9 is the top choice for your 2025 events:
Premium Kratom Quality: Mitra9 offers a range of high-quality kratom products that deliver reliable results every time.
Lab-Tested for Safety and Potency: Every product undergoes third-party lab testing for potency, purity, and safety.
GMP Compliant Manufacturing: You’re getting kratom products made under strict quality control standards.
Consistency Across Batches: With Mitra9, you’ll get the same reliable potency in every product.
Versatile Product Selection: Whether you want powder, capsules, or liquid extracts, Mitra9 has the perfect product for your green party drinks.
Conclusion: Cheers To A Green 2025!
Ready to add something special to your 2025 events? Incorporating green party drinks with Mitra9 kratom will not only elevate your menu but also provide your guests with an experience they won’t forget. Whether you’re going for refreshing, energizing beverages or something more relaxing and soothing, Mitra9 kratom is the perfect addition to your drink recipes.
So, get creative with your green-themed drinks and let Mitra9 enhance your celebration. Cheers to a fun and festive 2025!
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/hrushi-chavhan-etKzUztddNY-unsplash.jpg40002565Five Reasonshttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgFive Reasons2025-05-01 21:02:062025-05-01 21:02:06Delicious Green Party Drinks with Mitra9 – Ideal for 2025 Events
TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida Panthers advanced to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the fourth consecutive season after taking down the Tampa Bay Lightning in five games of their first round series.
Sam Bennett scored the game winner, Sergei Bobrovsky had 26 saves and the Panthers defeated the Lightning 6-3 in the series clinching Game 5 on Wednesday night at Amalie Arena.
The Panthers and Lightning have met in the playoffs four of the past five seasons. Tampa won their first two matchups (2021 & 2022), while Florida won their two most recent series (2024 & 2025).
“Every year it just keeps getting harder and harder,” Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov said of the rivalry with Tampa. “They’ve won cups, and they’ve been in the finals. They know what it takes and now we’ve done the same thing… It [was] a really hard series last year and this year [was] even harder. Just happy that we won this year.”
Lightning forward Gage Gonclaves opened the scoring 2:33 into the first period after he put away a rebound for his first career playoff goal. This was the first time in the series where Lightning scored the first goal of the game.
On the first power play of the night, the Panthers quickly responded to tie the game. At the 5:21 mark of the first, after a Matthew Tkachuk point shot ended up in front of goal, Carter Verhaeghe spun around to beat Andrei Vasilevskiy for his second goal of the postseason.
Trade deadline acquisition Brad Marchand continues to impress on the Panthers third line with Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen. Linking up on the opening goal in Game 4, the young Finns and 36-year-old Marchand connected again in Game 4. Marchand danced around the Lightning zone before firing a net-front pass to Lundell, who tilted his skate — but without kicking motion — to give the Panthers a 2-1 lead.
”You have a goal every round and it’s to play at your best and take control of moments and be big when opportunities present themselves like tonight,” Marchand said postgame. “There’s so much experience in this room, a lot of guys that have been there, been through it and realizing the importance of closing that series when you have that opportunity.
“The guys did a great job, even when they scored early. You could sit back but we didn’t. We just continued to push and get better as the game went on.”
In a seesaw first period, Nick Paul had the final of four goals in the opening frame. With 8:34 to go in the period, Paul beat Bobrovsky with a top-shelf snipe from the slot to tie the game at 2-2. turn to get on the scoresheet
Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov reclaimed the lead just 58 seconds into the second, putting his team up 3-2 after deflecting in a point-shot from Gustav Forsling.
Jake Guentzel tied the game on the power-play with his third goal of the series 9:57 into the second.
With 4:47 to go in the second period, once again, the Panthers retook the lead. After killing off a penalty, Sam Bennett — who was fresh out of the box — beat Vasilevskiy with a shot off the rush to put the Panthers up 4-3.
“It’s not a good feeling being in the box twice there, especially after they scored one,” Bennett spoke of the penalty he served before his eventual game-winning goal. “[I was] a little anxious in the box there but luckily was able to come out, and Lundy (Lundell) made a great play to find me and I was able to put it in.”
Luostarinen doubled the Panthers lead with 6:58 to go in the third after Marchand made a great play to reach a loose puck and feed him a backdoor pass, making it 5-3. Luostarinen finished the night with a game-high four points (1-3-4).
“A little insurance there for sure,” Luostarinen said of his goal. “It felt good to get on the board. I think we had six minutes left; we knew we had to play like we did and just seal the deal.”
Sam Reinhart put away an empty-netter with 4:24 left to ice the game at 6-3.
For their second round opponent, Florida awaits the winner of the Toronto Maple Leafs – Ottawa Senators series. Toronto currently holds a 3-2 lead over Ottawa, with Game 6 on Thursday night in Kanata, ON.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-2212198510.jpg8191024Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-04-30 22:18:592025-04-30 23:33:17Panthers Advance to Second Round of Playoffs, Defeat Lightning in Five Games
The NHL Department of Player Safety has suspended Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad two games for a high hit on Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brandon Hagel in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference playoffs first round.
With 8:39 to go in the second period of Monday’s game, Ekblad raised his elbow and laid an extended blow to the head of Hagel, the Department of Player Safety said in their breakdown of the play.
The Panthers will be without Ekblad in a potential series clinching Game 5, Wednesday night in Tampa.
Ekblad missed the Panthers’ first two playoff games — which they won both — as he served out the remainder of a 20-game suspension for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program.
Hagel, who did not return to the game following the hit, has been ruled out of Game 5, per Lightning head coach Jon Cooper.
Florida holds a 3-1 series lead in their first round series against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Game 5 will be at 7:30 p.m. EST from Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-2211960068.jpg6831024Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-04-29 19:48:362025-04-29 19:48:36Panthers Defenseman Aaron Ekblad Suspended Two Games
Rugby is tough. It’s full of tackles, scrums, and big hits, and that means injuries happen. Whether it’s a twisted ankle or a big blow to the shoulder, players often find themselves sitting out for a while. But coming back from an injury isn’t just about resting up. It takes hard work, patience, and a strong mindset. Some players say it’s even harder than training for a game! Still, many rugby players turn their recovery into a chance to grow stronger, both on and off the field. Here’s how they do it.
What Kind of Injuries Happen in Rugby?
Let’s be real: rugby isn’t exactly gentle. With so much contact, injuries are part of the game. Players often hurt their knees, shoulders, and ankles, and sometimes even get concussions. Tackling and scrums are where most of the big hits happen. Even though players wear mouthguards and train hard to stay safe, accidents still pop up. The good news? Coaches and physios (that’s short for physiotherapists) are always on hand to help players recover quickly and safely. Still, getting hurt can be super frustrating, especially when all you want is to be back on the field.
Getting Better Takes Time and Effort
Once a player is injured, it’s time for rehab. That means doing specific exercises, going to physio appointments, and following a routine, every single day. It’s not always fun. Some players get bored or feel left out while their team keeps playing. Others start to worry they might not get back to where they were. But if they stay focused and keep pushing, they usually come back even stronger. It’s all about staying positive and putting in the work, even when it feels slow or tiring. One step at a time really does make a big difference.
Staying Busy While Healing Up
While waiting to heal, players often look for ways to keep their minds busy. Some watch old games, help coach younger players, or just cheer on their teammates. Others try fun stuff off the field, like gaming or light hobbies. A few even play online games during their downtime. Some players enjoy the fast-paced feel of places like wolf winner real money online casino, where they can make quick decisions and feel that rush of competition again. It’s not the same as a real game, but it helps pass the time while staying sharp.
Support Makes All the Difference
It’s tough being stuck on the sidelines, but players don’t go through it alone. Friends, family, coaches, and team physios all help out. Sometimes just talking about how they’re feeling makes a huge difference. Clubs are getting better at checking in on players, not just for their injuries, but for their mental health, too. Having people who believe in you and cheer you on can help you stay motivated and not give up. And when players feel supported, they bounce back quicker and with way more confidence.
Game Time Again: Let’s Go!
Finally, after weeks or even months, it’s time to get back in the game. But coming back isn’t just about fitness. It’s about trusting your body again. Players often feel nervous at first. Will they be as fast? As strong? Will the injury come back? That’s totally normal. Coaches help them ease into training and take it slow until they’re ready. And when they finally hit the field, the feeling is awesome. It’s not just about playing again. It’s about knowing they worked hard to get there. That first try or tackle back? Pure magic.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot_29-4-2025_101059_www.bing_.com_.jpeg318473Five Reasonshttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgFive Reasons2025-04-29 10:11:372025-04-29 10:11:37Rugby Injuries and Recovery: What It Takes to Come Back
SUNRISE, Fla. — Sometimes the stories write themselves.
Holding a 2-1 lead with under four minutes to play in Game 4, the Tampa Bay Lightning looked like they were going to steal back home-ice advantage and tie the series at 2-2.
Then in the blink of an eye, Tampa’s lead was gone.
Amerant Bank Arena erupted as the Panthers rallied, scoring two goals in 11 seconds, propelling them to a 4-2 win and a 3-1 series lead over the Lightning.
“It was exciting,” Brad Marchand said of the final moments of the game. “We’ve been through moments like this before. I think that the one thing that you see in the room — with the group — is just the level of calm throughout the game.”
Anton Lundell opened the scoring 9:06 into the second with his first goal of the playoffs after Brad Marchand fed him alone in front of the Lightning goal.
A little over three minutes after the Panthers scored the first — which they’ve done in all four games this series — the Lightning completely flipped momentum, scoring twice in 11 seconds to go up 2-1.
Mitchell Chaffee got Tampa on the board after sneaking a rebound under Sergei Bobrovsky to tie the game at 1-1.
On the following shift, defenseman Erik Cernak put his team in front after burying a bar-down shot in just 11 seconds after Chaffee’s tally.
Lightning forward Brandon Hagel returned from his one-game suspension for a late hit he laid on Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov in Game 2. In his return to the lineup, Hagel received a high — unpenalized — hit from Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad inside the Lightning zone. Hagel left the game with 8:37 to go in the second period and did not return.
“It’s getting tiresome answering questions about a hit every single game,” Lightning head coach Jon Cooper responded to a reporter asking his opinion of the hit.
Already down a goal entering the third period, Florida lost defenseman Niko Mikkola just 19 seconds into the third period after he was assessed a five-minute major and a game misconduct for boarding Zemgus Girgensons, who was on his knees when the hit was made.
The Panthers were able to kill off the major penalty unscathed after Brayden Point got called for a high-stick on Eetu Luostarinen with seven seconds to go in the man-advantage.
“It started with the kill, that was such an important piece of the game,” Panthers head coach Paul Mauirce said. “ Keeping that belief, you come out of it and you think something’s good, it’s going to happen. You get a power play going, you think that’s what it is — except it’s not.”
Aaron Ekblad thought he had tied the game on the power play with 12:58 remaining in regulation after he beat Vasielvskiy with a top shelf shot. However, the Lightning successfully challenged that the Panthers’ zone entry was offside and the goal came off the board.
Searching for an equalizer as the game clock quickly wound down, Ekblad would eventually get his golden moment back.
With 3:47 to go, an unmarked Ekblad roofed a net-front shot over the glove of Vasilevskiy, tying the game at 2-2.
Moments later — as the Sunrise crowd was still juiced up from Ekblad’s equalizer — Seth Jones’ point shot found goal with 3:36 left to play after taking a deflection off Lightning defenseman Ryan McDonagh’s skate.
History often repeats itself. In tonight’s case, both teams scored unanswered goals exactly 11 seconds apart.
Carter Verhaeghe sealed the win and a 3-1 series lead with an empty net goal.
Game 5 will be at 7:30 EST on Wednesday night from Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL.
“They’re going to bring their best game of the year,” Jones said when asked about Game 5. “Obviously it’s their season [on the line]. The fourth one is always the hardest one to win.”
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-2211979209.jpg6831024Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-04-28 23:14:542025-04-28 23:15:09Panthers Score Twice in 11 Seconds, Put Lightning on Brink of Elimination
SUNRISE, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Lightning got themselves back into the series with a big 5-1 road win in Game 3 over the Floria Panthers on Saturday afternoon at Amerant Bank Arena.
Andrei Vasilevsky had 33 saves as the Lightning won their first game of the 2025 postseason.
Florida still leads the series 2-1 with Game 4 back at their arena on Monday night.
“It just went flat for a while,” Panthers head coach Paul Maurice answered when asked what changed in the game. “I liked our start.. missed connections on a bunch of stuff. [We weren’t] that far off it.”
Maurice added: “A couple of knucklers on you and you’re down 3-1, chasing it a bit.”
Matthew Tkachuk opened the scoring with his third goal of the series just 2:43 into the game, putting the Panthers up 1-0 after he tapped in a loose puck past Vasilevsky.
The Panthers scored the first goal in every game this series, with those goals coming within the opening five minutes of the first period.
With 2:45 left in the opening period, Lightning forward Brayden Point tied the game with his second goal of the postseason.
Nick Paul gave the Lightning its first lead of the series 13:16 into the second period after beating Sergei Bobrovsky with a short-side shot off the rush, putting Tampa up 2-1.
The Lightning doubled their lead just 21 seconds into the third period, going up 3-1 after Guentzel beat an unsuspecting Bobrovsky up high for his third goal of the series.
Luke Glendening iced the game with just under six minutes to go in the third, scoring Tampa’s fourth unanswered goal of the game.
With Florida’s goalie pulled, Anthony Cirelli scored to make it 5-1. On the other side of the ice, Tkachuk laid an open ice hit — away from the puck — on Guentzel. Tkachuk was given a five-minute major for interference.
“We had a great start — we did the right things but they’re a great team also,” Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov said. “They play really well and won the game today. All we got to do from this game is learn.”
The Panthers will look to bounce back and put the Lightning on the brink of elimination in Game 4, which will be Monday night at 7 p.m. EST in Sunrise.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/BENNETT-CERNAK.jpg6831024Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-04-26 16:27:332025-04-26 16:27:33Lightning Score Five in Game 3 Win, Panthers Still Hold 2-1 Series Lead
SUNRISE, Fla. — Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov is a game-time decision for Saturday’s Game 3 against the Tampa Bay Lightning, according to Panthers head coach Paul Maurice.
Barkov will have to get through warmups before a decision is made, though it sounds like the team is optimistic he’ll play.
“He’s going to take warmups,”Maurice said. “If he feels good — if we think he’s good. He does have to get through it, push his heart rate up… we think he’s good.”
In the third period of Game 2 on Thursday, Barkov left the game after Lightning forward Brandon Hagel laid a late, high hit on him away from the puck.
Hagel was issued a one-game suspension for the hit and will miss Game 3.
Aside from Barkov status, the Panthers will only be making one lineup change as defenseman Aaron Ekblad will be returning to the lineup following a 20-game suspension.
Uvis Balinskis will be the defenseman who comes out for Ekblad.
After winning the first two games of the series on the road in Tampa, the Panthers will look to take a 3-0 series in their home playoff opener.
Puck drop for Game 3 is scheduled for 1 p.m. EST at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, FL.
PANTHERS’ PROJECTED LINES
VERHAEGHE-BARKOV*-REINHART
SAMOSKEVICH-BENNETT-TKACHUK
LUOSTARINEN-LUNDELL-MARCHAND
BOQVIST-STURM-RODRIGUES
FORSLING-EKBLAD
MIKKOLA-JONES
KULIKOV-SCHMIDT
BOBROVSKY
VANECEK
*Game-Time decision
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Barkov..jpg530560Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-04-26 11:41:152025-04-26 11:44:46Aleksander Barkov Will Take Warmups for Game 3 vs Lightning
