Panthers-Lightning preseason game postponed

The preseason game between the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning at BB&T Center on Thursday was postponed Wednesday because of the expected landfall Hurricane Matthew in South Florida.
"While we are disappointed to announce the postponement of any event at the BB&T Center, the safety of our fans, staff and the people of South Florida is always our top priority," executive chairman Peter Luukko told the Panthers website.

The Panthers will play what was to be their final preseason game against the New Jersey Devils at Tate Rink in West Point, N.Y. on Saturday. Florida opens the regular season against New Jersey at BB&T Center on Oct. 13.
The Lightning were to finish the preseason against the Nashville Predators at Amalie Arena on Saturday. Their first regular-season game is against the Detroit Red Wings at home Oct. 13.