The Florida Panthers are set to face off against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena on Sunday, aiming to achieve their fourth consecutive win. This match marks the beginning of a four-game road trip as they confront challenges, including the absence of their top scorer, Sam Reinhart, who is sidelined due to an undisclosed injury. Sam Bennett, who traveled with the team, remains uncertain for the game as he is listed as day-to-day.
Recent Performance
The Panthers arrive at this matchup with a record of 33 wins, 29 losses, and 3 overtime losses. They recently secured a 2-1 overtime victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets. In that game, Bennett scored the equalizer early in the second period on a power play, setting up Reinhart for the decisive goal.
- Game highlights against Columbus:
- Bennett scored the equalizer.
- Reinhart secured the game-winning goal.
- Mike Benning made his NHL debut, assisting on the winner.
- Sergei Bobrovsky’s Performance:
- Two-time Vezina Trophy winner.
- Stopped 30 of 31 shots against the Blue Jackets.
- Has allowed only one goal in his last two games.
Anticipated Lineup Changes
Head coach Paul Maurice expressed optimism as Anton Lundell and Carter Verhaeghe are expected to return after injuries kept them sidelined. If the team maintains the practice lines, one exciting forward trio could consist of Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen, and Matthew Tkachuk, who exhibited impressive chemistry in previous matchups.
Seattle Kraken Overview
The Seattle Kraken are coming off a strong 5-2 victory against the Vancouver Canucks. Bobby McMann, who was acquired from the Toronto Maple Leafs, earned first-star honors with two goals in that game. The Kraken’s recent successes have improved their standing to 30 wins, 26 losses, and 9 overtime losses, leaving them just one point shy of a playoff berth.
- Key Performers:
- Jordan Eberle: 47 points (22 goals, 25 assists).
- Matty Beniers: 43 points (18 goals, 25 assists).
- Chandler Stephenson: 40 points (14 goals, 26 assists).
- Goaltending Situation:
- Philipp Grubauer was in goal against Vancouver.
- Joey Daccord is expected to start against Florida.
- Daccord has a record of 18 wins and 16 losses this season.
Critical Matchup Ahead
This matchup will be their first meeting this season, with another game scheduled shortly after on March 24 in Sunrise. As both teams vie for postseason positions, the intensity of this game reflects the mounting pressure felt by playoff contenders. Coach Maurice noted the parallels between the Panthers’ and Kraken’s recent struggles.
Viewing Information
- Date: Sunday, March 15
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Location: Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA
- Broadcasting: WSFL, WHDT, WFTX, PanthersPlus.TV
- Radio: 104.3 WQAM-FM/560 WQAM-AM, SiriusXM
The Panthers are eager to extend their win streak and face a formidable opponent in the Kraken. With key players returning and fresh strategies in play, it promises to be an intriguing matchup on the road to the playoffs.
