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Panthers Lead Lightning 2-0 in Playoff Series After Defensive Showcase and Controversial Hit

Florida dominates with stellar defense and Bobrovsky's shutout as Barkov's injury following Hagel's hit adds tension ahead of Game 3.

Florida Panthers center Aleksander Barkov tries to get up after getting knocked down by Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Brandon Hagel during the third period in Game 2 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series, Thursday, April 24, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Image
Apr 11, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Brandon Hagel (38) skates with the puck as Detroit Red Wings center Michael Rasmussen (27) defends during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images/ File Photo
Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky (72) stops a shot as right wing Mackie Samoskevich (25) keeps Tampa Bay Lightning center Jake Guentzel (59) from a rebound during the second period in Game 2 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series, Thursday, April 24, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Overview

  • The Florida Panthers secured a 2-0 series lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning with a 2-0 victory in Game 2, highlighted by Sergei Bobrovsky's 19-save shutout.
  • Defenseman Nate Schmidt scored his third goal of the series, tying an NHL record for defensemen in the first two playoff games.
  • The Panthers' penalty kill excelled, neutralizing all five of Tampa Bay's power plays, a critical factor in their defensive dominance.
  • Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov left the game in the third period after a major interference hit by Brandon Hagel, who now faces an NHL disciplinary hearing.
  • The series shifts to Sunrise, Florida, for Game 3 on Saturday, where the Panthers will aim to extend their lead on home ice.