In a stunning first-round playoff series, Matthew Tkachuk led the Florida Panthers to an incredible victory over the Boston Bruins, one of the greatest teams in NHL history. Tkachuk’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, with the 25-year-old forward tallying 5 goals, 11 points, 1 overtime goal, 16 penalty minutes, a +5 rating, and 22 shots on goal. Matthew Tkachuk leads Florida Panthers
The Panthers were down 3-1 in the series but managed to win three consecutive games to clinch victory in Game 7, with an overtime goal scored by Carter Verhaeghe and assisted by Sam Bennett and Tkachuk. This remarkable comeback showcased the resilience and tenacity of the Panthers, who refused to be intimidated by the Bruins’ historic season.
Two other Panthers players made significant contributions to the team’s success in the series. Defenseman Brandon Montour scored 5 goals and provided 3 assists, totaling 8 points in 7 games, while Verhaeghe, the hero of Game 7, finished the series with 2 goals and 6 assists for a total of 8 points in 7 games played.
The team’s triumph over the mighty Boston Bruins has already solidified their place in the 2023 playoffs as a force to be reckoned with as they go on to face the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Leafs will be playing in their first second round series in almost 2 decades.
The Boston Bruins set multiple records during the regular season, breaking the NHL points record, as well as the NHL wins record. The Bruins were favorites to win the Stanley Cup with odds that were over +300 better than any other team int he league.