Full Breakdown
Panthers Stage Stunning Comeback Against Hurricanes in Preseason Clash
9/25/2025, 12:45:12 PM
Game Overview: Panthers vs. Hurricanes
On September 24, 2025, the Florida Panthers faced off against the Carolina Hurricanes at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, in their third preseason game. The Panthers, fielding a roster primarily composed of younger prospects and players vying for roster spots, managed to secure a surprising 4-2 victory over the Hurricanes, who dressed several of their NHL regulars.
First Period: Hurricanes Take Control
The game began with the Hurricanes asserting dominance, outshooting the Panthers 19-2 in the first period. Ryan Suzuki opened the scoring for Carolina at 10:07, redirecting a shot from Mike Reilly. Jesperi Kotkaniemi extended the lead to 2-0 with a wrist shot at 16:20, capitalizing on a turnover in the Panthers' zone. Despite the early deficit, Panthers goaltender Daniil Tarasov made 16 saves in the first period, showcasing his resilience under pressure.
Second Period: Defensive Stand
The second period saw no goals, but the Hurricanes continued to control the pace of the game, outshooting the Panthers 16-6. Tarasov's performance remained stellar, as he stopped all shots faced during this period, keeping Florida within striking distance heading into the final frame.
Third Period: Panthers' Remarkable Comeback
The third period marked a dramatic turnaround for the Panthers. Ben Harpur scored at 3:56, cutting the Hurricanes' lead to 2-1 with a shot that found its way through traffic. Shortly after, Noah Gregor tied the game at 2-2 at 16:02, taking advantage of a miscue by Hurricanes goaltender Amir Miftakhov. Mike Benning then scored to give the Panthers a 3-2 lead at 17:19, and Jack Studnicka sealed the victory with an empty-net goal at 19:22. The Panthers scored four unanswered goals in the third period, despite being outshot 49-16 overall.
Key Performances
Daniil Tarasov was instrumental in the Panthers' victory, making 47 saves and earning praise from head coach Paul Maurice, who noted the importance of such a performance for Tarasov's confidence. On the offensive side, Harpur, Gregor, and Benning each contributed significantly to the comeback, demonstrating the potential of Florida's younger players.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the game, Paul Maurice remarked on Tarasov's performance, stating, “He was fantastic, and that's a great thing for him, build confidence.” Tarasov himself emphasized the team's perseverance, saying, “We stuck together, battled together, and stayed patient until the end.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the loss, Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour acknowledged the team's early control but criticized the lack of intensity in the third period. He noted, “It was clear that the Hurricanes outclassed the Panthers' NHL regular-less roster through 40 minutes, but the Canes decided to start packing it in early after going up 2-0.”
What's Next
The Panthers will face the Hurricanes again on September 29, 2025, as they continue their preseason schedule. The Hurricanes, seeking to rebound from this defeat, will next meet the Tampa Bay Lightning on September 26, 2025.
This game serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of preseason hockey, where younger players can seize opportunities and make significant impacts.
