Overview
- Five different Panthers players scored, showcasing Florida's offensive depth in their commanding 5-2 win over Carolina in Raleigh.
- Sergei Bobrovsky made 31 saves, maintaining his postseason form and keeping Carolina's offense at bay during critical stretches.
- Carolina's Jalen Chatfield missed Game 1 due to a lower-body injury, forcing prospect Scott Morrow into a challenging playoff debut.
- Tensions flared in the third period as Brad Marchand received a game misconduct after a fight with Shayne Gostisbehere, reflecting the series' physical intensity.
- Game 2 is scheduled for Thursday at 8:00 p.m. ET in Raleigh, with Carolina aiming to rebound and adjust to Florida's dominant performance.