Panthers and Lightning Clash Leads to 13 Ejections in Thrilling Exhibition Match
The Florida Panthers Dominate in Penalty-Filled Showdown Against Tampa Bay Lightning
The rivalry between the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning intensified in a fierce match that culminated in a staggering 7-0 victory for the Panthers. The game, marked by an astonishing 13 ejections, reflected the heated animosity that has developed between these two Southeast Division teams.
High Tensions Erupt Early in the Game
The action kicked off aggressively, with four players being ejected during the first period alone. The conflict started when Scott Sabourin clashed with Aaron Ekblad, an encounter that quickly escalated into punches being thrown, despite Ekblad’s apparent disinterest in fighting. Sabourin, who spent most of the previous season with the San Jose Sharks’ AHL affiliate, laid a hard hit on Ekblad that set the tone for the night.
Following Sabourin’s ejection, Carter Verhaeghe received his marching orders after delivering a brutal boarding against Zemgus Girgensons. The rough play continued, leading to the ejections of Lightning defenseman J.J. Moser and Tampa Bay blue-liner Roman Schmidt in the same period. The aggressive atmosphere persisted throughout the game, resulting in a combined total of 312 penalty minutes for both teams.
Suspensions and Misconduct Add Complexity to the Rivalry
As the match progressed, Florida defenseman Niko Mikkola contributed an assist to what appeared to be an eighth goal in the third period. However, that goal was ultimately disallowed when it was revealed that Mikkola had entered the ice after receiving a game misconduct. This incident underscored the chaotic nature of the match.
Earlier in the week, tensions had already escalated. Panthers forward A.J. Greer incurred a fine for roughing Lightning winger Brandon Hagel during Thursday’s encounter. Remarkably, Greer avoided a suspension, highlighting the ongoing intensity of the rivalry.
A Storied Rivalry as Regular Seasons Approached
The rivalry between the Panthers and the Lightning has reached a fever pitch, particularly following their playoff meetings in back-to-back years where Florida triumphed both times on their way to winning the Stanley Cup. The fierce battles have resulted in dramatic storylines, including Hagel’s suspension last season for a hit on Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, further stoking the flames of this intense competition.
As both teams prepare to start their regular seasons next week, fans are eagerly anticipating their next clash, set for November 15, where the longstanding competition will continue to unfold.
Key Takeaways from the Panthers vs. Lightning Showdown:
- Florida Panthers won 7-0 against Tampa Bay Lightning
- 13 ejections occurred throughout the game
- First-period ejections included Scott Sabourin, Carter Verhaeghe, J.J. Moser, and Roman Schmidt
- Combined penalty minutes reached 312
- Niko Mikkola’s assist was nullified due to game misconduct
- Ongoing rivalry fueled by playoff history and recent altercations
As the NHL season unfolds, fans can expect more rivalry highlights as these two teams continue to clash on the ice.
