Despite one team having ample rest and the other a quick turnaround, the Florida Panthers maintained their aggressive style, securing a 5-2 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final.
Successful teams often rely on consistent strategies. The Panthers, known for reaching three straight conference finals, frequently establish a second-period lead. Their Game 1 advantage (3-1) entering the third period continued a trend: they`ve now won 28 consecutive playoff games when leading after two periods.
Let`s analyze each team`s performance, highlight key players for Game 2, and examine the crucial questions facing both the Hurricanes and Panthers before Thursday`s matchup.
Carolina Hurricanes
Grade: C-
The Hurricanes typically control possession, a key factor in their previous series wins. While they managed 56% shot share in Game 1, their lack of control in critical moments proved costly. A turnover led directly to the Panthers` 2-0 goal. Florida also capitalized on quick passes, scoring two power-play goals on three chances against a previously top-ranked penalty kill.
Florida Panthers
Grade: A-
Florida continued their dominant form from their previous series-clinching game. After trading early chances, Florida took control once they got on the scoreboard. Although Carolina pushed back in the second period, Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky delivered a sharp performance, outplaying his counterpart and anchoring the win. Florida received contributions across the board, including a power-play goal from their second unit. Despite a brief lull, the team seems fully operational.
Three Stars of Game 1
1. Sergei Bobrovsky
G, Panthers
Bobrovsky stopped 31 shots, allowing only two goals in the victory. The Panthers have significantly outscored opponents on the road lately (17-4 in their last three), largely thanks to his play. This plus-13 differential ties for third-highest in a three-game road span in postseason history.
2. A.J. Greer
LW, Panthers
Greer scored the game-winning goal, his second goal in the last four playoff games, a notable increase from his regular-season pace (two goals in his final 45 games).
3. Aaron Ekblad
D, Panthers
Ekblad scored his seventh career playoff goal, tying him for second-most by a Panthers defenseman in franchise history.
Players to Watch in Game 2
Jalen Chatfield
D, Hurricanes
Chatfield, a key defenseman averaging over 20 minutes this postseason, missed Game 1, leading to Scott Morrow`s playoff debut. Morrow struggled, being on ice for three goals against and taking a penalty that resulted in a Panthers power-play goal. If Chatfield remains out, coach Rod Brind`Amour will need to adjust the defensive pairings. Chatfield`s return would add a veteran presence.
Brad Marchand
LW, Panthers
Unsurprisingly, the Game 1 fight involved Brad Marchand, who reacted strongly to a perceived action from Carolina defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere. Marchand received penalties and was ejected. Expect him to be highly motivated in Game 2. He was already impactful before the incident, screening the goalie on a key power-play goal. Marchand`s history suggests he will look to agitate and set a physical tone.
Big Questions for Game 2
How will the Hurricanes bounce back from a significant loss?
This was Carolina`s largest margin of defeat in over a month. Their two previous playoff losses were much tighter. The team is accustomed to recovering from close defeats, but can they regain their cohesion after a three-goal loss? Their response will determine if they tie the series or fall into an 0-2 hole heading to Florida.
Is Florida headed for exhaustion?
The Panthers have faced a demanding schedule, traveling significantly after their Game 7 victory. While they didn`t appear tired in Game 1, the cumulative travel and quick turnaround could be a factor. Carolina, having had more rest initially, should be better adjusted for Game 2. The Hurricanes know what to expect and will make adjustments. Thursday will reveal if Florida`s demanding path catches up to them.
Benedict Kingsley 
Rupert Hartwell