BOSTON – The Florida Panthers are setting their sights on one objective as they head back home: closing out the series.
With a 3-1 lead in the Eastern Conference Second Round after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the Boston Bruins at TD Garden, the Panthers are gearing up for Game 5 at Amerant Bank Arena on Tuesday with the opportunity to secure a spot in the Eastern Conference Final.
Before their departure on Monday, players discussed the upcoming challenge.
“We’re eager to be back in front of our fans with a chance to finish the job,” commented forward Evan Rodrigues. “Elimination games are always the toughest. That’s when the opposition pushes hardest. We need to be ready to match their intensity.”
Statistically, the Panthers have reasons to be optimistic.
Historically, they hold a perfect 3-0 record when leading 3-1 in a best-of-seven series.
Moreover, the team boasts an impressive 8-4 record in Game 5s, including a convincing 6-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in the First Round, clinching the series.
As before, Game 5 promises to be a clash between determination and urgency.
“We’re dealing with different mindsets,” stated head coach Paul Maurice. “They’re fueled by desperation, but we maintain our desire.”
STATISTICAL DOMINANCE
The past three games have showcased the Panthers’ superiority.
Following a 5-1 setback in Game 1, they have responded emphatically, demonstrating dominance on both ends of the ice in Games 2, 3, and 4 against Boston.
In addition to outscoring the Bruins 15-5 in those encounters, the Panthers have registered substantial advantages in shot attempts (149-87) and scoring chances (66-34) at 5-on-5, as per NaturalStatTrick.com.
On special teams, they have excelled, going 6-for-18 on the power play and 8-for-9 on the penalty kill.
In Game 4, the Panthers tightened their defense, allowing just two shots on goal in the third period while outscoring the Bruins 2-0 to secure the win.
“Entering the third period, our team was confident in our ability to win,” remarked forward Sam Bennett, who netted the crucial game-tying goal. “The atmosphere in the locker room was incredibly positive. We knew victory was within our grasp; it was only a matter of time.”
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While some pundits may speculate about various factors contributing to the Panthers’ commanding series lead, the statistics speak for themselves—the Panthers have simply been the better team.
LUNDELL MAKES AN IMPACT
In Game 4, Anton Lundell provided the spark when needed most.
The 22-year-old forward broke through Boston’s defense, scoring in the second period to narrow the gap to 2-1.
“The first goal was pivotal for us,” noted Lundell, who recorded his first playoff goal. “Scoring in the playoffs is challenging, but we persevered and eventually found the back of the net. Our line set the tone for the game.”
Despite his youth, Lundell’s confidence continues to impress teammates.
“He’s confident and wants to make a difference,” remarked Rodrigues. “It’s easy for a young player to shy away from big moments, but he thrives on the challenge. He enjoys matching up against top opponents—it brings out the best in his game.”
Since Bennett’s return, Lundell’s shift to the third line has yielded positive results, with the line showcasing elite forechecking abilities.
INJURY UPDATE
Coach Maurice confirmed that Vladimir Tarasenko and Sam Reinhart are both fit to play in Game 5.
In Game 4, Tarasenko appeared shaken after blocking a shot with his ankle, while Reinhart left the game with a facial injury in the third period.
Fortunately, neither injury is cause for concern.
During the playoffs, Tarasenko and Reinhart have combined for six goals.
EKBLAD’S CONTRIBUTION
Aaron Ekblad delivered an outstanding performance in Game 4.
Leading all Panthers defensemen in hits (6) and time on ice (22:55), Ekblad also contributed defensively, posting a +2 plus/minus rating and assisting on Lundell’s goal.
During his shifts, the Bruins struggled to generate offense.
Throughout Ekblad’s 18:25 of 5-on-5 ice time in Game 4, the Panthers dominated with a 38-11 advantage in shot attempts, a 19-3 lead in shots on goal, and a 21-6 edge in scoring chances, per NaturalStatTrick.com.
Overall, Ekblad’s performance was instrumental in the Panthers’ victory.
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