It’s been a few days since the Florida Panthers extinguished the Boston Bruins in Game 6 of the second round, helping them advance to Round 3.
In that time, players have had a chance to get some rest in and allow their bodies to heal but a bit from what was a very physical series with the B’s.
Also in that time, Alexander Barkov was awarded the Selke Trophy, the second of his career — the first coming in 2021. This award is given to the forward who best excels in the defensive side of their game. Barky has always been a great defender, constantly getting back to help out the defense. We saw this on display a lot during the Boston series. Barkov was an excellent back-checker, breaking up passes, harassing/taking the puck away from driving Boston players, etc., so it’s a well-deserved award.
While personal accolades are great, the focus is on the real prize…the Stanley Cup.
A new battle begins tonight in the war for the Cup when Florida faces off against the New York Rangers in a Round 3 matchup that’s sure to be a good one!
See the below for a nice comparison of the two teams:
The eye test from some of the Rangers games I saw showed me a very tough team. They swept the Capitals — yes, they aren’t as potent as they once were — and quickly went up 3-0 on Carolina. Despite dropping two games to the Canes, New York ultimately ended up sniffing out Carolina’s playoff run.
It’s the first time these two teams will play each other in the postseason since 1995, when the Rangers knocked out the Cats in five games.
Every series is a big one in the postseason. This one really has potential to be a blockbuster. The Cats are probably touting the most cohesive team they have had since their 1996 Cup run. They will be up against a very talented NYR team led by the bruising Trouba.
The Rags seem able to beat the opposition from a variety of spots on the ice. From some of the games I saw, they can do damage down low/in tight. Florida’s defense will need to do a good job of clearing the crease so Bob is free to operate. And Bob will need to have good rebound control.
The Cats are healthy and ready to go.
See you in the Windy Apple!
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Go Panthers!
Florida Panthers Blogger • 
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