Tampa Bay had a 2-1 lead midway through the game against Florida after Victor Hedman played in one of the goals.
Then came the collapse when Florida turned the tables via three straight goals where Gustav Forsling – who is having a successful season – played until Steve Lorentz’s 2-4 goals.
Dream location for Florida
Nick Paul then reduced it to 3-4 and created nerves in the game that was decided only when big star Matthew Tkachuk scored 3-5 in the open box, a goal in which Forsling was noted for another assist.
– We are in a position now that we dreamed of before this match series, but there have been really even games where our goaltending has decided many times, Tkachuk told nhl.com.
Florida can now secure a spot in the quarterfinals on Friday night while Tampa Bay needs to win four straight games to keep their season alive.
– It is now that we have to show who we really are. We have our backs against the ropes, but we have to keep fighting, says Tyler Motte to NHL.com.
Hedman does not close the WC door
The three kroner fans are certainly following the match series with excitement as a possible exit for Tampa Bay would already make it possible for Victor Hedman to join the World Cup squad. Something the Swedish star back himself does not rule out.
– There is always a chance. As long as you feel energetic and can contribute, it’s always tempting to participate, Hedman said at a press conference for Swedish media before the playoffs started.
In the second playoff game of the night, Carolina won 3-2 against the New York Islanders and thus Carolina is 3-0 in games.
