Florida Panthers Edge New York Rangers In Game 5

Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky watches the puck during the second period of Game 5 of the team's Eastern Conference finals against the New York Rangers in the NHL hockey Stanley Cup play

The Florida Panthers are on the brink of returning to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year and the third time in franchise history after defeating the New York Rangers 3-2 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference final. The Panthers have showcased their ability to win close games, with this victory marking their second consecutive win in the best-of-series.

Anton Lundell broke the tie with less than 10 minutes remaining in the game, securing the crucial win for the Panthers. Gustav Forsling and Sam Bennett also contributed goals, while goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky made 25 saves to propel the Panthers to victory.

Despite the win, the Panthers remain focused on taking it one game at a time, with Bennett emphasizing the lessons learned from their previous Stanley Cup Final appearance last year. The Rangers, on the other hand, are facing elimination for the first time in this year's playoffs and need to win two straight games to advance to the final.

Anton Lundell scored the game-winning goal for the Panthers.

Florida Panthers won 3-2 against New York Rangers in Game 5.

Gustav Forsling and Sam Bennett also scored for the Panthers.

Sergei Bobrovsky made 25 saves for the Panthers.

Panthers lead the series 3-2, with Rangers facing elimination.

Both teams showcased resilience and determination in a tightly contested game.

Panthers aim to return to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year.

Rangers need to win two straight games to advance to the final.

Coaches emphasized the importance of capitalizing on scoring chances.

Next game will be crucial for both teams, with Panthers having the chance to close out the series.

The game was tightly contested, with both teams having their fair share of opportunities. The go-ahead goal by Lundell came after a turnover by the Rangers in the Florida end, with Eetu Luostarien setting up Lundell for the decisive shot.

Florida coach Paul Maurice highlighted the importance of every play in such a closely fought series, with the Panthers' defensive efforts proving crucial in securing the win. Rangers coach Peter Laviolette acknowledged the tight nature of the game and stressed the need to capitalize on scoring chances.

Chris Kreider and Alexis Lafreniere scored for the Rangers, while Forsling and Bennett found the back of the net for the Panthers. Kreider's short-handed goal in the second period electrified the Madison Square Garden crowd, but the Panthers responded with goals to level the score and eventually take the lead.

With the series now at 3-2 in favor of the Panthers, the Rangers face a must-win situation in the next game to stay alive in the playoffs. The Panthers have the opportunity to close out the series in the upcoming game on home ice.

Both teams displayed resilience and determination throughout the game, with the Panthers ultimately emerging victorious in a hard-fought battle. The stage is set for an intense showdown in the next game as the Panthers aim to secure their spot in the Stanley Cup Final once again.

For more NHL news and updates, visit AP NHL.