Overview
- The Panthers beat the Blackhawks 5-3 on Wednesday night, with Sandis Vilmanis scoring twice and adding two assists for a four-point game.
- Sam Reinhart had a goal and two assists, Jacob Markström started and made 18 saves, and defenseman Niko Mikkola left in the third period with an undisclosed injury that remains developing.
- Chicago got two third-period goals from Frank Nazar and contributions from Roman Kantserov, Connor Bedard and Ethan Del Mastro, but the club is 1-6-1 over its last eight games.
- Florida’s depth scoring has driven its recent form, as the team is 4-1-0 in its last five and 7-3-0 in its last 10 while going 9-0-1 this season when allowing three goals or fewer.
- The Blackhawks have continued roster tinkering, including the reported recall of Dillon Boucher, and must address low shot totals and a struggling power play as Florida heads out on a road trip and Mikkola’s status is monitored.