In front of Roberto Luongo and his 26 saves, the Florida Panther secured a 2-1 shootout victory over Tuuka Rask and the Boston Bruins.
The first period would see the Bruins commit two penalties, and the Panthers commit one, although neither team’s power play could trip the light fantastic. What did was eventually Jimmy Hayes, with his 18th marker of the season. The goal came after a healthy scratch for the big guy, and would represent the fourth such goal this season for the inimitable Mr. Hayes. Dave Bolland was credited with a very well deserved assist on a no-look pass from behind the net which hit Hayes in the blue paint with five minutes left in the period. Jussi Jokinen also earned a helper on the play. The period would end with the Cats up by a 1-0 margin.
In the second, Patrice Bergeron provided the equalizer at the three minute mark with a power play marker off assists from Ryan Spooner and Dougie Hamilton. It was Bergeron’s 20th marker of the campaign, and the last good thing to happen for the Bruins.
After an eventless third period and overtime, the Panthers would taste victory after a Brandon Pirri joint between Tuuka Rask’s wickets in the second round of the shootout. One shooter and a Spooner miss later, and the Panthers would stand three points from the Bruins with 10 games to play in the regular season.
Unfortunately, the Maple Leafs wouldn’t cooperate with the Panthers in securing a playoff spot, losing to the ninth-place Ottawa Senators by a 5-3 count.
For more on the Broons head to Stanley Cup of Chowder.
Full recap headed your way in the morning.