SUNRISE - The fourth version of the Sunshine State Showdown was built up as a battle beyond state bragging rights as the two Florida hockey teams occupy the top two spots in the Atlantic Division.
But it was Florida that played like a first-place team in a 5-2 thumping of the Lightning that ended Tampa Bay’s winning streak at seven games and moved five points ahead of the Lightning.
Ben Bishop ended the game watching from the bench after the Panthers erupted for four goals in the second period, marking the first time since Dec. 30 Bishop had allowed more than two goals in a game.