Overview

• The Florida Panthers defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 6–3 in Game 5, advancing to the second round of the NHL playoffs.
• Eetu Luostarinen was the standout player for the Panthers, contributing one goal and three assists in the series-clinching victory.
• The Washington Capitals eliminated the Montreal Canadiens in five games, with Alexander Ovechkin opening the decisive 4–1 win with his fourth playoff goal.
• A potential second-round matchup between German players Nico Sturm of the Panthers and Tim Stützle of the Senators depends on Ottawa overcoming a 3–2 series deficit against Toronto.
• The Panthers, last season’s Stanley Cup champions, continue to build on their championship momentum with a strong opening-round performance.