The Eastern Conference Final is heating up as the Florida Panthers dominate the Carolina Hurricanes, taking a commanding 3-0 series lead. In Game 3, the Panthers exploded for five goals in the final period, showcasing their offensive prowess and solidifying their status as a serious contender for the Stanley Cup. With the series now tilted heavily in Florida’s favor, can the Hurricanes find a way to turn the tide?
- Panthers lead series 3-0 against Hurricanes.
- Five goals scored by Panthers in third period.
- Kochetkov starts in goal for Hurricanes.
- Hurricanes' power play struggles continue.
- Carolina's playoff losing streak extends to 15.
- Game 4 scheduled for Monday at 8 p.m.
Florida’s victory on May 25, 2025, came after a tightly contested match that saw the Hurricanes briefly tie the game. However, the Panthers’ relentless attack proved too much, leaving Carolina struggling to break a disheartening streak of 15 consecutive losses in the Eastern Conference Finals. As the teams gear up for Game 4, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Panthers’ offensive explosion raises questions about the Hurricanes’ ability to bounce back. Can they regroup and avoid a sweep? Key developments include:
- Florida scored five goals in just over nine minutes of the third period.
- Carolina’s rookie Logan Stankoven provided a glimmer of hope with a goal.
- Goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov made 21 saves but couldn’t withstand the late onslaught.
- The Hurricanes have not won an Eastern Conference Final game since 2009.
As Game 4 approaches on Monday, the Hurricanes must dig deep to stave off elimination. Will they rise to the occasion, or will the Panthers continue their march toward the Stanley Cup Final?
