Net minders Harri Sateri and Jaroslav Halak would each get the nod for their respective sides. But, only one goaltender would finish victorious in this contest. Who would it be?
The Panthers started the game off strong, applying loads of pressure down deep in the Islanders zone. Because of it, scoring chances were being created, which forced Halak to remain steady on his feet. No matter how many shots the Panthers were firing, Halak was there to deny them all.
Eight minutes into the opening period, and the Panthers struck first. Mark Pysyk sent a pass from across the blue line to Michael Matheson, where Matheson quickly received it and let one rip top-shelf:
Michael Matheson puts the #FlaPanthers on the board, 1-0: pic.