The Florida Panthers continued their impressive form with an 8-4 win over the Colorado Avalanche, marking their seventh consecutive victory. Sam Reinhart led the charge with a hat trick, scoring three goals, including a crucial power-play goal in the third period to give the Panthers a 5-4 lead.
Reinhart’s performance, with 11 points in the last seven games, was pivotal for the Panthers (25-12-2), who have outscored opponents 31-14 during their winning streak. Matthew Tkachuk contributed with a goal and three assists, and Aleksander Barkov had four assists. Carter Verhaeghe also scored twice and provided an assist, while Sergei Bobrovsky made 23 saves.
Despite a strong start from Florida, taking a 3-0 lead midway through the first period, the Avalanche managed to tie the game early in the second. Cale Makar and Valeri Nichushkin were among the key contributors for Colorado (25-12-3), with Makar scoring a goal and an assist and Nichushkin adding a goal and an assist.
Florida coach Paul Maurice praised his team’s ability to maintain composure, even as the Avalanche fought back. Colorado, however, couldn’t sustain their momentum, and the Panthers regained control in the third period.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 48 points weren’t enough for the Bucks, who lost to the Houston Rockets, and the Panthers took advantage of the Avalanche’s goalie switch. Ivan Prosvetov allowed four goals on 13 shots before being replaced by Alexandar Georgiev, who made 12 saves.
Jonathan Drouin tied the game for Colorado in the third period, but Reinhart’s go-ahead goal, followed by further scores from Kevin Stenlund, Tkachuk, and Verhaeghe, sealed the win for Florida.
Panthers forward Sam Bennett did not play after the second period due to an upper-body injury, but coach Maurice did not express major concern.
This win for the Panthers not only extends their winning streak but also showcases their offensive firepower and resilience in high-scoring games. The Avalanche, meanwhile, will look to bounce back from this setback as they continue their season.
