“He’s a man’s tank,” Maurice said. “When you come across him, you’ll feel it. He’s been a very impactful player here for about a month with our injuries. He’s been quite respected in the league, so he kept the game in a peaceful way on many nights.”
Somehow, when they got out of the team-on-team quarrel without a team-on-team penalty, the Sabres scored a 5-3 power play midway through the period, causing the Panthers to pay. With only one second left in The Man Advantage, JJ Peterka filled the shot from the circle on the right to make it 2-2 at 12:18.
Following a desperate overtime that incredibly failed to achieve either team’s goals, action shifted to gunfighting.
Stepping up as the team’s first shooter, Anton Landell defeated Rukkonen with a shot on the blocker side to lift the Panthers 1-0.
It proved to be the only goal they needed as Vanecek went from a perfect 3-for-3 against the Buffalo shooter.
With the Panthers holding their annual fan appreciation night, Czech goaltenders saw it as a great way to thank South Florida hockey for their faithfulness.
“We play hockey for our fans, so we’re really happy to be able to make them happy,” said Vanecek, who finished with 26 saves.
They said that
“The guys bought the system and it’s going really well. It’s really good to see the Charlotte guys coming in and fit right away.” – Carter Verhoge on the depths of Florida
“The good thing is that your break is a little more relaxed for the player.” – Paul Maurice to win each of the last three games
“I think it feels really good in the game. My teammates played really well. That’s always a big help.” – Vitek Vanecek in his performance in tonight’s victory
Cat statistics
-Carter Verhaeghe scored the 300th point in his NHL career.
– Seth Jones blocked a team high three shot.
-Nico Sturm went 13-9 (69.2%) on the Facoff Circle.
-Jesse Puljujarvi produced a team-high nine hits.
– Anton Landell led the Florida forward in 20:09 ice time.
-VitekVanecek has made four high danger saves according to inncureStattrick.com.
What’s next?
There are only two games left!
In the penultimate game of the regular season, the Panthers will be held in a row as they host the New York Rangers at Amerant Bank Arena on Monday at 7pm.
For tickets please click here.
