Matthew Tkachuk’s winner secures Panthers’ 1st Stanley Cup Finals since 1996 1z154x

Hurricanes @ Panthers; Game 4, 5/24 | NHL Playoffs 2023 | Stanley Cup Playoffs 2v1c31

The Florida Panthers completed a series sweep against the Carolina Hurricanes with a 4-3 victory in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference final on Wednesday. The game-winning goal came from Matthew Tkachuk with only 4.3 seconds remaining, propelling the Panthers to their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 1996.

Throughout the playoffs, Tkachuk has proven to be the NHL’s most clutch player. In Game 4 alone, Tkachuk netted two goals on five shots. With linemates Sam Bennett and Nick Cousins, Tkachuk’s line dominated the opposition, outshooting them 10-3 at 5-on-5.

Florida Panthers

2023-05-25 12:16

THE EAST BELONGS TO THE RATS 🐀 https://t.co/wEunRBKBha

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“We are lucky to have Chucky on our side,” said Panthers goalkeeper Sergei Bobrovsky. “He’s been great for us all season long and the whole playoffs. He knows how to score big goals.”

Bobrovsky made 36 saves in the final game, recording 1.36 goals saved above expected. His stellar performance in the playoffs puts him in contention for the Conn Smythe Trophy and potentially even a future spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Florida Panthers

2023-05-25 12:16

WE WERE THE STORM 🗣️ CATS WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! https://t.co/jsdQ3a3l5m

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Bennett has also become a notable presence as one of the NHL’s top pests, but his impact extends beyond that role. He played a crucial part in Tkachuk’s game-winning goal, using his physicality to win possessions. The 26-year-old center has contributed to the team’s offense, with 11 points in 15 games.

Unsung heroes for Panthers 6p5w4g

Amid the Panthers’ playoff campaign, two players have emerged as unsung heroes. While the spotlight tends to focus on star goaltender Bobrovsky and dynamic forward Tkachuk, Anthony Duclair and Gustav Forsling have been quietly making significant contributions to the team’s success.

Florida Panthers

2023-05-25 12:16

WHY NOT US https://t.co/zrcJsVyZdY

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Duclair’s incredible speed has been causing trouble for opposing defenses. In 15 playoff games, he shot 32 times, nailing three of them, and recorded six assists. In Game 1, the left winger showcased his offensive skills with two assists and eight shots on goal.

Once on the verge of leaving the NHL, Forsling has become a reliable defenseman alongside Aaron Ekblad. Other than his low penalty minutes of only six minutes, he has four assists and two goals in 16 playoff games. With his ability to log substantial ice time, the 26-year-old defenseman played 55 minutes and 41 seconds in Game 1.