Overview

• The Florida Panthers defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 4–2 in Game 4 of their first-round NHL playoff series, securing a 3–1 series lead.
• Defenders Aaron Ekblad and Seth Jones scored two goals within 11 seconds, shifting momentum in favor of the Panthers during the second period.
• Carter Verhaeghe sealed the victory with an empty-net goal in the final moments of the game.
• German forward Nico Sturm remained scoreless for the Panthers, who are now one win away from advancing to the quarterfinals.
• Game 5 of the best-of-seven series is scheduled for Thursday night in Tampa Bay, where Florida will look to close out the series.