TORONTO — The Florida Panthers are facing an uphill battle in their second-round playoff series against the Toronto Maple Leafs, currently trailing 0-2 after a narrow 4-3 loss in Game 2 at Scotiabank Arena on May 7, 2025. The reigning Stanley Cup champions are hoping to regain momentum as they prepare for Game 3 back in Florida.
In the lead-up to the game, Panthers head coach Paul Maurice addressed the media, discussing the expected frosty reception for forward Sam Bennett, who is under scrutiny following a controversial incident in Game 1. Bennett inadvertently elbowed Toronto goalie Anthony Stolarz, leading to a head injury that has sidelined Stolarz for the series. Despite the incident, the NHL's Department of Player Safety opted not to suspend Bennett, a decision that has sparked heated debate among analysts and fans alike.
“Was this a blatant elbow to the back of Anthony Stolarz’s head? YES,” tweeted former NHL defenseman Chris Pronger. “Should it have been a penalty? YES. Was Bennett trying to injure Stolarz? I DON’T THINK SO.” Pronger’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment that while Bennett's hit was reckless, it did not warrant suspension.
Scott Laughton, a forward for the Maple Leafs, succinctly summed up Toronto's response to the incident, saying, “To win.” The Leafs are determined to focus on their game rather than retaliate against Bennett, who has a reputation for being an aggressive player.
As tensions ran high, the Panthers were looking to improve their performance from Game 1, where they lost 5-4. Maurice expressed confidence in his team, highlighting their road game experience: “We are 18-10 overall on the road since the start of the 2023 playoffs. Our style suits that kind of game.”
In Game 2, the Panthers came out with a more energetic start, with Aleksander Barkov opening the scoring just five seconds into their first power play. However, they were stunted by three minor penalties throughout the match, which hampered their ability to maintain momentum. Max Pacioretty added another power-play goal late in the first period, but the Leafs responded quickly, with William Nylander and Max Domi scoring to put Toronto ahead.
Defensively, the Panthers struggled against the Maple Leafs' aggressive forecheck. Maurice noted that despite their efforts, the team was “behind in our game” and needed to improve body and puck movement. With Aaron Ekblad returning to the lineup after a two-game suspension, the Panthers hoped to bolster their defense. Ekblad logged nearly 20 minutes of ice time and contributed an assist, showcasing his importance to the team.
“He came into the league as a puck-moving, point-generating defenseman,” Maurice said of Ekblad. “We missed him. He is a big part of what we do.” Ekblad's return was a welcome sight for the Panthers, who have been navigating a challenging playoff landscape without their star defenseman for much of the season.
Matthew Tkachuk, another key player for Florida, has been performing well during the playoffs, but Maurice acknowledged that he is still finding his rhythm. “His production is there. He is putting the numbers up with the power play,” Maurice stated. “The further away he gets, the more reps he gets, the stronger he gets, and the better he gets.”
Despite the loss, the Panthers remain optimistic. “We knew it was going to be a really tough battle,” said forward Brad Marchand. “We didn’t expect to roll over them by any means. So we have our work cut out.”
Looking ahead, the Panthers are set to return to Amerant Bank Arena for Game 3 on May 9, 2025. The team is determined to turn the tide in the series, with Maurice emphasizing the importance of their playoff experience. “We have a lot of belief in our group, in our room, our experience,” he said. “These series can change on a dime.”
As the playoff race heats up, both teams will be eager to establish dominance. The Maple Leafs will continue to adapt to the absence of Stolarz, with backup goalie Joseph Woll stepping in. Woll, who faced 20 shots in relief during Game 1, will need to rise to the occasion as the pressure mounts.
In the broader context of the series, the Panthers are hoping that a return to their home ice will provide the spark they need to get back into contention. With a history of overcoming adversity, Florida’s resilience will be tested as they strive to claw their way back into the series.
The next game promises to be a pivotal moment for both teams, with the Panthers looking to capitalize on their home advantage and the Maple Leafs aiming to extend their lead. With the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect an electrifying matchup as the quest for the Stanley Cup continues.
