Lightning vs. Panthers: NHL Game Recap – April 28, 2025

Florida Panthers Stun Lightning with Lightning-Fast Goals, Take Commanding Series Lead

Can you feel the electricity? The Florida Panthers just delivered a playoff performance for the ages, clawing back from a two-goal deficit to defeat the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-2. the Panthers now hold a 3-1 series lead, putting them on the brink of advancing to the next round.

A Third Period to remember: Ekblad and Jones Ignite the Comeback

The Amerant Bank Arena erupted as Aaron Ekblad and Seth Jones scored a pair of goals just 11 seconds apart in the third period. This historic feat propelled the Panthers to victory and sent shockwaves through the NHL.

Quick Fact: Ekblad and Jones’s goals were the fastest by defensemen from the same team in Stanley Cup Playoffs history!

Anton Lundell also contributed a crucial goal, and Carter Verhaeghe sealed the deal with an empty-netter. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky stood tall, stopping 18 shots and anchoring the Panthers’ defense.

For much of the third period,it looked grim for the Panthers,managing only three shots on goal. But with 3:47 remaining, Ekblad unleashed a shot that tied the game, igniting the home crowd. Jones followed up moments later, burying the puck and giving the panthers their first lead of the night.

“Hatred” Fuels the Fire: The Intensity of a Playoff Rivalry

“From Game 1 you could feel the hatred in the locker room,” Jones said after the game. “You could feel the hatred on the ice. But it’s most importantly about winning. The job’s not finished. We’ve got to go to Tampa and have a good game.”

Jones’s comments underscore the fierce rivalry between thes two Florida teams.The intensity is palpable, and every game is a battle for bragging rights and playoff survival.

Early Struggles and Lightning Strikes: Tampa Bay’s Initial Surge

The game wasn’t without its challenges for the Panthers.Lundell got the Panthers on the board in the second period,but Mitchell Chaffee and Erik Cernak responded with two goals in rapid succession for the Lightning,putting Tampa Bay ahead 2-1.

Tampa Bay’s Andrei vasilevskiy, known for his stellar goaltending, made 19 saves, keeping the Lightning in the game until the Panthers’ late surge.

Controversy on the ice: Hagel’s Injury and Ekblad’s Overturned Goal

The game also featured moments of controversy. Brandon Hagel of the Lightning left the game in the second period after a high hit from Ekblad. The hit, which made contact with Hagel’s chin area, resulted in no penalty, sparking debate among fans and analysts.

Adding to the drama, ekblad had a potential tying goal overturned in the third period due to an offside call. This setback could have deflated the Panthers, but they persevered, demonstrating their resilience and determination.

Coach Maurice praises Ekblad’s performance: “An Important Part of What We Do”

“Good for him,” said Florida coach Paul maurice,praising Ekblad’s performance. “The first nongoal was a heater. And you’ve seen that from him. The tying goal, some great patience. So good for him, does a great job of getting up the ice and timing when to go in and to take that chance. So he’s an important part of what we do.”

Maurice’s comments highlight Ekblad’s importance to the Panthers’ success. His ability to contribute offensively while playing a strong defensive game makes him a valuable asset.

The Road Ahead: Can the Panthers Clinch the Series in Tampa?

The Panthers now have a golden opportunity to close out the series in Tampa Bay on Wednesday night. Though, the lightning will undoubtedly be looking to defend their home ice and force a Game 6 back in Sunrise.

The Panthers will need to maintain their intensity, capitalize on scoring chances, and rely on Bobrovsky’s stellar goaltending to secure the series victory.

FAQ: Key Questions About the Panthers-Lightning Series

Q: What is the current series score between the panthers and Lightning?

A: The Florida Panthers lead the series 3-1.

Q: Where is the next game being played?

A: Game 5 will be played in Tampa Bay.

Q: Who scored the game-winning goal for the Panthers?

A: Seth Jones scored the go-ahead goal for the Panthers in the third period.

Q: What was meaningful about Ekblad and Jones’s goals?

A: Their goals were the fastest by defensemen from the same team in Stanley Cup Playoffs history (11 seconds apart).

Q: What happened to Brandon Hagel of the Lightning?

A: Hagel left the game in the second period after taking a high hit from Aaron Ekblad.

Pros and Cons: Analyzing the Panthers’ playoff Run

Pros:

• Strong goaltending from Sergei Bobrovsky.
• Offensive contributions from key players like Ekblad, Jones, and Lundell.
• Resilience and ability to overcome adversity.
• Intense team chemistry and a “hatred” for their rivals, fueling their performance.

Cons:

• Inconsistency in offensive production at times.
• Potential for undisciplined play, leading to penalties.
• Reliance on key players, making them vulnerable if those players are injured or underperforming.

Expert Insights: What Analysts Are Saying About the Series

Expert Tip: “The Panthers’ ability to generate offense from their defensemen is a game-changer. ekblad and Jones’s goals show how crucial it is to have players who can contribute at both ends of the ice,” says ESPN hockey analyst John Buccigross.

Analysts are praising the Panthers’ resilience and their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. However, they also caution that the Lightning are a risky team and cannot be counted out, especially on home ice.

The American Hockey Landscape: A Look at the NHL Playoffs

The Panthers-Lightning series is just one example of the intense competition in the NHL playoffs. Teams across the United States and Canada are battling for the chance to hoist the Stanley Cup, and the excitement is palpable.

From coast to coast, fans are tuning in to watch their favorite teams compete, and the playoffs are a major cultural event in the American sports landscape.

Interactive Element: Reader Poll

Who do you think will win the series between the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning?

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What are your thoughts on the Panthers’ comeback victory? Share your predictions for the rest of the series in the comments below!

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Expert Analysis: Florida Panthers’ Playoff Surge – Can They Clinch the Series?

The Florida Panthers have electrified the NHL playoffs with a stunning comeback victory over the Tampa Bay lightning, taking a 3-1 series lead. To dissect this pivotal game and understand the Panthers’ chances of advancing, we spoke with renowned hockey analyst, brenda McHale.

Time.news Editor: Brenda, thanks for joining us. The Panthers’ 4-2 win over the Lightning was nothing short of dramatic.What stood out to you most?

Brenda McHale: The resilience of the Panthers was remarkable. They faced adversity with Hagel’s injury and Ekblad’s overturned goal,but kept their focus. Coming back from a two-goal deficit, especially in the playoffs, shows an incredible amount of mental fortitude. The key to the comeback was of course the two goals by defensemen Ekblad and Jones eleven seconds apart. That’s the kind of energy that can swing a series.

Time.news Editor: That rapid-fire scoring was historic! What does that kind of offensive contribution from defensemen say about the Panthers’ strategy?

Brenda McHale: It demonstrates a modern NHL approach. Teams need offensive output from all positions,not just the forwards. Ekblad and Jones stepping up highlights the Panthers’ ability to generate offense from their blue line. Coach Maurice’s comments about Ekblad’s timing and ability to jump into the play are telling. It’s a purposeful part of their game plan, very effective for the Florida Panthers playoff run.

Time.news Editor: Jones mentioned the “hatred” fueling the rivalry between these two Florida teams. How much does that intensity impact the game?

Brenda McHale: Playoff rivalries are built on emotion, and this one is particularly fierce given the proximity and history between the Panthers and Lightning. That “hatred,” as Jones put it, translates to heightened competitiveness, tighter checking, and a refusal to back down. It elevates the stakes and makes every shift a battle, particularly in a high-stakes NHL playoffs series.It drives the intensity that fans and players thrive on.

Time.news Editor: Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky had a solid game, stopping 18 shots. How crucial is his performance to the Panthers’ success?

Brenda McHale: A reliable goalie is the backbone of any prosperous playoff team, and Bobrovsky is no exception. While his save count in this particular game wasn’t astronomical, his presence in net provides a sense of calm and confidence for the team. The team knows that he is going to make the routine saves and give them a chance to win every single night. It takes away from the pressure to score every shift.

Time.news Editor: Looking ahead, the Panthers have a chance to close out the series in Tampa bay. What do they need to do to secure the victory?

Brenda McHale: Tampa Bay will come out with everything they have.Securing a road win comes down to discipline. They must avoid needless penalties, capitalize on power-play opportunities, and weather the unavoidable Lightning surge. Strong goaltending from Bobrovsky is a must,and they need to maintain the offensive pressure we saw in that third period. Most importantly, they can’t afford to get complacent with a 3-1 lead in the series. All it takes is one loss on the road and the series shifts back to home ice.

Time.news editor: Any final thoughts for our readers who are following this series?

Brenda McHale: Expect the unexpected. The NHL playoffs are known for their unpredictability. While the Panthers have a commanding lead, the Lightning are a perilous team. the Panthers cannot afford to lose focus.enjoy the ride, buckle up, and prepare for more thrilling hockey.

Time.news Editor: Brenda, thanks so much for your insights. We appreciate your expert analysis.