The Florida Panthers are back on the road tonight, rolling into Raleigh with a shot at something pretty sweet - a season-series sweep of the Metropolitan Division-leading Carolina Hurricanes. It's the fifth stop on Florida’s six-game road trip, and they’re looking to build some momentum after getting back to .500 on the swing.
Monday night in Buffalo, the Panthers got the job done in a tight one, edging the Sabres 4-3. A.J.
Greer stepped up in a big way with a pair of goals, while Sam Reinhart and Anton Lundell each found the back of the net to round out the scoring. Sergei Bobrovsky picked up his 19th win of the season, turning aside 20 of 23 shots.
Sure, his save percentage and goals-against average might not jump off the page, but when it comes to wins, Bobrovsky is right near the top of the league - tied for second-most in the NHL. That says something about his ability to deliver when it counts.
Tonight’s matchup won’t be easy. Carolina might be coming off a pair of losses, but this is still a team that’s been one of the most consistent forces in the East.
Their recent skid started with a 4-3 overtime loss to the Red Wings on Monday, snapping a four-game win streak. Then came Tuesday’s 3-0 shutout loss in St.
Louis, where Joel Hofer and the Blues kept the Canes off the board entirely.
Like Florida, Carolina comes into this one rested - and probably a little hungry. Sebastian Aho continues to be the engine for this team, leading the way with 45 points. Seth Jarvis, meanwhile, has been their most dangerous finisher, pacing the team with 21 goals.
This game has all the makings of a measuring-stick moment for the Panthers. They’ve already taken the first two meetings from Carolina this season, and a third win would not only complete the sweep but also send a message that Florida’s not just a playoff hopeful - they’re a team that can hang with the best in the conference.
Expect a high-tempo, physical matchup between two clubs that know each other well and aren’t afraid to mix it up. The Panthers will need Bobrovsky to be sharp, the offense to stay opportunistic, and the defense to keep Aho and Jarvis in check. If they can do that, they’ll be heading into the final leg of their road trip with a big-time win in their pocket.