Evan Rodrigues doesn’t mince words about 312 PIM-laden Panthers vs Lightning clash
The rivalry between the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning reached new heights in a physical preseason game that saw a total of 312 penalty minutes and 14 players ejected. The Panthers emerged victorious with a 7-0 win, led by Evan Rodrigues’ hat-trick and dominant special teams play.
Rodrigues expressed his displeasure with the physicality of the game, stating that it got “silly” and “stupid” towards the end. The intensity of the matchup escalated after Panthers’ A.J. Greer received a fine for a cross-check and punch on Lightning’s Brandon Hagel in their previous encounter.
The Lightning seemed determined to retaliate in the preseason game, with coach Paul Maurice hinting at potential disciplinary action from the NHL. The game saw wild moments, including a goal being disallowed and a player receiving a game misconduct.
Lightning head coach Jon Cooper was not surprised by the heated nature of the game, acknowledging the longstanding rivalry between the two Florida teams. Both franchises have been successful in recent years, with multiple Stanley Cup appearances between them, adding fuel to the rivalry.
As the tension between the Panthers and Lightning continues to simmer, fans can expect more intense matchups and fierce competition between the two bitter rivals. The physicality and animosity on display in the preseason game serve as a preview of what’s to come in the regular season battles ahead.
