Panthers author another 'huge win,' push past Hurricanes

The Florida Panthers shocked the Carolina Hurricanes with a 5-2 victory in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference finals series, extending their playoff streak and drawing intense emotion from both teams. Panthers forward A.J. Greer scored the team's third goal and added insurance on power plays, while Panthers center Carter Verhaeghe opened the game with a hat trick, leading Florida to an early 1-0 lead. Despite struggling defensively at home earlier in the playoffs, Carolina failed to capitalize on multiple chances, ultimately falling in regulation before Panthers defenseman Evan Rodrigues forced a turnover that led to Aaron Ekblad's second goal.