Panthers Look to Extend Playoff Lead in Game 2 Against Lightning

TAMPA BAY – The Florida Panthers aim to capture a 2-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference First Round against the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 2 tonight at Amalie Arena at 6:30 p.m. ET.

After a commanding 6-2 victory in Game 1, the Panthers are focused on improving their strategy. “We have some things we want to do better. We weren’t perfect that game, so we learned some things,” said defenseman Gustav Forsling.

A major boost came from Matthew Tkachuk, who returned after missing 25 games due to a lower-body injury. Tkachuk led all players in Game 1 with three points, including two goals on the power play. “He’s one of the leaders on the team,” forward Nico Sturm said. “You could see the joy on his face in just being out there and competing.”

Nate Schmidt also had a strong performance, becoming only the fourth defenseman in the last 30 years to score multiple goals in his playoff debut, according to NHL Stats. “He falls into that category of a veteran player that appreciates and enjoys the playoffs,” said head coach Paul Maurice.

The Panthers scored in crucial moments in Game 1, including with under a minute remaining in the first period. Sam Bennett noted that getting the first goal is significant when playing away. “When you’re the away team, you don’t have the energy of the crowd on your side, so taking them away is big,” he said.

The Lightning, seeking to avoid a 2-0 deficit, may be without key forward Anthony Cirelli, who is a game-time decision after leaving Game 1 early. Despite potential lineup changes, Coach Maurice expressed confidence in his team’s identity. “They know exactly how they play the game and they can slot people in and move people easily,” he said.

Both teams will continue to rely on their star goaltenders. Sergei Bobrovsky of the Panthers stopped 20 of 22 shots in Game 1, while Andrei Vasilevskiy faced more pressure, allowing six goals on 17 shots. The Panthers expect the Lightning to come out strong again. “They’re going to come out flying, like they did last game,” Forsling added.

As the series continues, both teams prepare for the challenge ahead, aiming to secure an early advantage in the playoff race.