The Florida Panthers have made a strong start to the Eastern Conference Final by crushing the Carolina Hurricanes 5-0 in Game 2. Florida dominated right from the beginning, holding the Hurricanes to just 17 shots.
One of the standout moments was when Gustav Forsling scored just 1:17 into the game, marking the 13th goal from a defenseman in this postseason, setting a franchise record early in the conference finals. Sam Bennett contributed with two goals, bringing his total to nine for the playoffs.
After an awkward hit from Sebastian Aho, Sam Reinhart had to leave the game and did not return.
The Panthers, who have now taken a 2-0 lead in the series, have thoroughly outperformed the Hurricanes by playing outstanding defensively and capitalizing on their scoring chances. The Hurricanes must now regroup as they head to Florida looking to salvage their season.
Eastern Conference Final
(2) Carolina Hurricanes vs. (3) Florida Panthers
- Game 1: Panthers 5, Hurricanes 2 | Recap
- Game 2: Panthers 5, Hurricanes 0 | Recap
- Game 3: Saturday, May 24 | 8 p.m. | TNT
Western Conference Final
(2) Dallas Stars vs. (3) Edmonton Oilers
- Game 1: Stars 6, Oilers 3 | Recap
- Game 2: Friday, May 23 | 8 p.m. | ESPN/ESPN+
