Panthers Take Eastern Conference Final Game 1 Led by Bobrovsky

Sergei Bobrovsky’s outstanding goaltending performance was crucial in the Florida Panthers’ 5-2 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference final, marking the Panthers' third consecutive appearance at this stage. Despite the Hurricanes outshooting the Panthers 78-46 and having a 70.9% chance to win according to simulations, Bobrovsky made 31 saves and stopped numerous high-quality chances, including seven power-play saves in the first two periods. Florida took an early lead with goals from Carter Verhaeghe, Aaron Ekblad, and others, while Bobrovsky limited the Hurricanes to two goals, one of which was a late redirection by Sebastian Aho. Panthers coach Paul Maurice praised Bobrovsky’s fitness and unique pregame weightlifting routine, which does not seem to affect his in-game stamina or performance. The Panthers have demonstrated a successful formula of early scoring combined with Bobrovsky’s reliable goaltending, outscoring opponents 38-18 on the road so far this postseason. This win may shake the Hurricanes, who suffered their first home loss of the playoffs and continued a long streak of losses in Eastern Conference finals dating back to 2006.