Florida Panthers Edge Out Boston Bruins in Thrilling Matchup
In a thrilling matchup on Wednesday evening, the Florida Panthers edged out the Boston Bruins 5-4, featuring a standout performance from Brad Marchand, who scored during the shootout to secure the win. Marchand made his return to the Panthers after a brief absence of two games. Earning recognition for his contributions, Anton Lundell notched a goal along with two assists, marking his second game this season with three points. Additionally, both Matthew Tkachuk and Uvis Balinskis contributed with a goal and an assist each, helping the Panthers snap a frustrating four-game losing streak. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky put forth a robust effort, turning away 25 shots.
Bruins Struggle to Find Rhythm
The Bruins struggled to find their rhythm in Florida, suffering back-to-back losses in shootouts, with a recent defeat against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the NHL Stadium Series on Sunday adding to the team’s woes. Michael Eyssimont was a bright spot for Boston, netting two goals, while Mark Kastelic and Casey Mittelstadt also found the back of the net. Joonas Korpisalo recorded 22 saves, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory.
Game Highlights
The scoring opened with Eetu Luostarinen giving the Panthers an early lead at 4:22 into the first period, but Boston responded quickly, taking a 2-1 advantage as Eyssimont scored on two breakaways, showcasing his speed and skill. The Panthers, however, dominated the second period with a strong performance on special teams, netting three goals—two of which came from power plays and one while a man down.
Balinskis leveled the score just half a minute into the second period, and Tkachuk pushed Florida ahead with another power-play goal shortly thereafter. Lundell then extended the Panthers’ lead with a goal in the waning minutes of the period.
In the third, the Bruins fought back, with Kastelic bringing them within one, followed by Mittelstadt tying the game with a power-play goal, lifting his shot over Bobrovsky after a rebound.
Despite Boston’s vigorous efforts, they finished the night with a disappointing 1 for 7 on their power play opportunities.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, the Bruins will face the Columbus Blue Jackets at home on February 26, while the Panthers will be on the road against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday night.
