Florida Panthers Lead Playoff Series After Victory Over Lightning

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers secured a 2-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs on April 21, 2025. Sergei Bobrovsky recorded a shutout, blocking all 19 shots faced at Amalie Arena, allowing the Panthers to lead the series 2-0.

Nate Schmidt scored the game’s first goal at 4:15 in the first period, set up by a faceoff win from Aleksander Barkov and a pass from Sam Reinhart. Bobrovsky’s strong performance gave him his fourth career playoff shutout, and Sam Bennett sealed the victory with an empty-net tally. Despite the win, the Panthers suffered a loss as Barkov exited the game midway through the third period due to a hit from Brandon Hagel, who is now suspended for one game.

The match showcased impressive penalty kills from both teams. The Lightning failed on five power-play attempts, while the Panthers went 0-for-3. “We played very well defensively,” noted Panthers coach Paul Maurice. “The guys did a great job keeping them to the outside.”

As the teams prepare for Game 3 at Amerant Bank Arena on April 26, the status of Barkov remains uncertain. “He’ll be a game-time decision based on how he feels after the morning skate,” Maurice confirmed.

The Lightning will need a renewed focus on offense in the upcoming game, having struggled to convert on scoring opportunities. They managed only 20 shots that missed the net in Game 2. “We just need to find a way to get the game in the win column,” a determined Brayden Point explained ahead of Game 3. “It’s time for all players to step up.”