Sergei Bobrovsky shutout boosts Florida Panthers over New York Rangers in Game 1

Bobrovsky shines with shutout as Panthers defeat Rangers. Verhaeghe, Bennett score. Shesterkin makes 24 saves. Game 2 on Friday.

In a thrilling playoff matchup, the Florida Panthers emerged victorious over the New York Rangers with a 2-0 win. Carter Verhaeghe and Sam Bennett found the back of the net, while goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky recorded his second career playoff shutout, making 24 saves. The Presidents' Trophy-winning Rangers, despite an impressive regular season, suffered their third loss in four games after a seven-game winning streak to start the postseason.

The Panthers struggled on the power play, going 0 for 2, while the Rangers failed to capitalize on their only power play opportunity. Bobrovsky made some crucial saves to keep the Panthers in the lead, including denying a one-timer from Kaapo Kakko and stopping a drive by Adam Fox during a New York man advantage.

Florida seemed to extend their lead with a goal from Oliver Ekman-Larsson, but it was overturned due to goalie interference. However, they eventually found the back of the net again when Verhaeghe's pass deflected off Alexis Lafreniere and past Rangers' goaltender Igor Shesterkin.

As the Rangers pulled Shesterkin for an extra skater in a desperate attempt to tie the game, Bobrovsky stood tall, making a key save on Mika Zibanejad. Bennett sealed the victory for the Panthers with an empty-net goal.

The game was filled with excitement and close calls, with both teams having opportunities to score. Tkachuk opened the scoring for the Panthers late in the first period, while Schneider narrowly missed tying the game with a shot that hit the post.

Overall, it was a hard-fought battle between two talented teams, with the Panthers ultimately coming out on top. Game 2 is set for Friday night in New York, and fans can expect another intense matchup between these two competitive teams.

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