Given that it was the first-ever playoff series between the cross-state rivals, the two teams traded words, hits and leads throughout one of the most exciting 60 minutes of hockey that you'll ever see, with Brayden Point's goal late in the game lifting the Lightning to a 5-4 win.
"A very intense game," Panthers coach Joel Quenneville said. "There was a lot going on out there. Their power play was the difference tonight, and 5-on-5 we were OK. … There's some] things we can take from that game to learn from and improve. It was a heck of a hockey game."
For a recap, quotes and notes from Game 1, check out "5 Takeaways" by clicking **[HERE**.
Looking to pull even in the series, the Panthers will host the Lightning for Game 2 on Tuesday before making the trip to Amalie Arena for Games 3 and 4 Thursday and Saturday, respectively.
With the two teams evenly matched, the key to victory for the Panthers in those games will likely come down to being able to stay out of the penalty box. After all, in Game 1, they outscored the Lightning 3-1 when play was at 5-on-5, but surrendered three goals to Tampa Bay's power play.
Poised to bounce back, Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov is eager to get back at it.
"We've [moved on] already," said Barkov, who had a goal and an assist. "I know it sucks, but it happened. Now we've got to concentrate on next game. We had some good momentum in the game, but have got to learn how to defend a little better. Other than that, I liked our effort." As for all you Panthers superfans out there, let's keep the noise coming in Game 2!
