Florida Panthers edge out New York Rangers in OT Thriller
Bobrovsky Shines, Wennberg's OT Winner Seals Series Opener
NEW YORK, N.Y. - Sergei Bobrovsky made 24 saves, including several key stops in overtime, as the Florida Panthers defeated the New York Rangers 4-3 in the opening game of their Eastern Conference Second Round series on Wednesday night.
Alex Wennberg scored the decisive goal 5:35 into the extra period, deflecting Ryan Lindgren's point shot past Igor Shesterkin. The goal gave the Panthers a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
The Panthers and Rangers traded blows throughout the game, with neither team leading by more than a goal until Wennberg's winner. Florida controlled the early stages of the contest, taking a 2-0 lead on goals from Jonathan Huberdeau and Owen Tippett.
However, the Rangers battled back, tying the game with goals from Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad in the second period. Alexis Lafreniere gave New York a 3-2 lead midway through the third period, but Aaron Ekblad tied it up again with just over five minutes remaining in regulation.
In overtime, both teams had chances to win the game, but Bobrovsky and Shesterkin stood tall. Wennberg's goal ultimately proved to be the difference, giving the Panthers a valuable road win in the series opener.
Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Friday night at Madison Square Garden.
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