Matthew Tkachuk returned from a two-month absence and instantly made an impact by scoring two power-play goals and adding an assist, leading the Florida Panthers to a decisive 6-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 1 of their playoff series. Nate Schmidt also shone with two goals, while Sam Bennett and Sam Reinhart contributed significantly with a goal and an assist each. Sergei Bobrovsky had a solid performance, making 20 saves, while the Lightning struggled, playing a significant part of the game without center Anthony Cirelli, whose absence was not immediately explained.

The Panthers demonstrated dominance early, with Bennett scoring first and Schmidt netting on a power play following a successful challenge. Tkachuk's quick two goals in the second period established a commanding lead. Although Tampa Bay's Brayden Point managed to cut the deficit, Florida's relentless offense, highlighted by Schmidt's third power-play goal, solidified their victory. The teams will face off again in Game 2 on Thursday at Amalie Arena.