Panthers Secure First-Round Series Victory Over Lightning With 6-1 Win - Bobrovsky's Stellar 31-Save Performance Propels Panthers - Double Goals from Barkov and Verhaege Power Florida's Offensive Surge - Panthers Achieve Series Victory Over Tampa Bay Lightning, Advancing Forward - Tampa Bay's Top-Ranked Power Play Struggles Contribute to Playoff Exit

Monday, April 29th, 2024

In a decisive playoff game in Sunrise, Sergei Bobrovsky was notable for his 31 saves. Aleksander Barkov and Carter Verhaege significantly impacted the game by each netting two goals and providing an assist, propelling the Florida Panthers to a resounding 6-1 win against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the fifth game of their series on Monday.

Additional contributions came from Niko Mikkola with a goal and an assist, Evan Rodrigues who also scored, and Matthew Tkachuk who set up two goals. This win is noteworthy as the Panthers have secured their first series victory over Tampa Bay in the history of the franchise, marking the fourth time they have clinched a playoff series victory on their home ice.

The Lightning's lone goal came from Victor Hedman, and despite their efforts, the team faced elimination for the second year in a row following three consecutive appearances in the Stanley Cup Final. Goalie Andrei Vasilevsky managed to block 33 shots.

Barkov significantly contributed to the Panthers' lead with a short-handed goal on a rebound and later added another goal in the third period which extended their lead following Hedman's goal. The Panthers showcased their offensive power by unleashing 22 shots in the second period, recording the second-most shots in a single playoff game in the team's history.

Verhaege initiated the scoring for the Panthers early in the second period and later sealed the deal with an empty-net goal. Rodrigues and Mikkola each added to the score, with Mikkola's goal also coming on an empty net.

The Lightning had goals by Anthony Cirelli and Mikhail Sergachev disallowed due to goaltender interference. Additionally, their highly effective power play during the regular season failed to convert any opportunities, finishing 0 for 3 in this crucial game.

Florida Panthers vs Tampa Bay Lightning Game Stats

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