Lightning to Face Panthers in Third Sunshine State Series in Four Years
Playoffs Begin This Weekend
For the third time in four seasons, the Tampa Bay Lightning will face their cross-state rivals, the Florida Panthers, in the Stanley Cup playoffs. The next Sunshine State series will begin this weekend when the two teams square off in Game 1 at Amalie Arena.
A Look Back at the Previous Two Series
The Lightning and Panthers have met in the playoffs twice before, with each team winning one series. In 2016, the Panthers upset the Presidents' Trophy-winning Lightning in the first round in six games. However, the Lightning got their revenge in 2021, defeating the Panthers in six games in the second round.
The two teams are very familiar with each other, and the rivalry has only intensified in recent years. The Lightning have won the last four regular-season meetings between the two teams, but the Panthers have been playing well lately and will be looking to make a statement in the playoffs.
What to Expect in This Year's Series
The Lightning are the defending Stanley Cup champions and are considered the favorites to win the series. However, the Panthers are a dangerous team and will be looking to prove that they are ready to take the next step. The series is expected to be close, and it could go either way.
Game 1 of the series is set for Saturday night at Amalie Arena. The puck drops at 8:00 p.m. ET.
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