Panthers Win 5-4 in Overtime, Narrow Series Gap to 2-1 Against Maple Leafs

In a thrilling Game 3 of the NHL Stanley Cup playoffs, the Florida Panthers managed to stave off elimination by defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-4 in overtime. The game, held in Sunrise, Florida, saw the Panthers rally from a 2-0 deficit to take the lead before the Maple Leafs tied it late in the third period, forcing overtime.

The Panthers' comeback was highlighted by a strong performance in the second period, where they scored three goals to take a 4-3 lead. Aleksander Barkov's goal and Sergei Bobrovsky's clutch performance in overtime were pivotal. However, the Maple Leafs responded with a goal from Morgan Rielly, tying the game at 4-4 with just over nine minutes remaining in regulation. Matthew Tkachuk's penalty in the third period led to a Panthers power play.

The decisive moment came in overtime when the Panthers capitalized on a power play opportunity, with Sam Reinhart scoring the game-winning goal. This victory narrows the series gap, with the Maple Leafs leading 2-1 as they head into Game 4.