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Panthers Electrify Lightning: Reinhart's Roar at Benchmark International Arena

The Florida Panthers showcased their prowess against the Tampa Bay Lightning, securing a 5-2 victory. This win improved the Panthers' record to 17-13-2, while the Lightning now stand at 18-12-3. The game was marked by strategic plays and standout performances that kept fans on the edge of their seats.


Dec 15, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers left wing Brad Marchand (63) reacts after scoring a goal with center Carter Verhaeghe (23) and defenseman Aaron Ekblad (5) against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the second period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

First Period


The opening period saw both teams testing each other's defenses, but it was the Cats who struck first. Carter Verhaeghe found the back of the net, setting an early tone for his team. The Bolts struggled to penetrate Florida's defense and ended the period scoreless.


Second Period


In a dynamic second period, Sam Reinhart emerged as a key player for Florida with two goals that left Tampa Bay scrambling for answers. His precision and timing were instrumental in widening the gap between both teams. Meanwhile, Anton Lundell added another goal to further solidify their lead. The Bolts managed to respond with a single goal from J.J. Moser but remained trailing behind.


Dec 15, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers left wing Brad Marchand (63) controls the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the second period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Third Period


As tensions rose in the final period, Sergei Bobrovsky stood tall in goal for Florida with crucial saves that thwarted Tampa Bay's attempts at a comeback. Despite another goal from Moser for Tampa Bay, it wasn't enough to close the gap created by earlier periods. Sam Bennett sealed Florida’s victory with an additional goal late in this segment.


Florida Panthers vs Tampa Bay Lightning highlights included Reinhart’s stellar performance and Bobrovsky’s defensive mastery which were pivotal in securing this win.


Dec 15, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers left wing Brad Marchand (63) reacts to a goal scored by center Sam Reinhart (13) against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the second period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Looking ahead, fans can catch more action when Florida hosts Los Angeles Kings on December 17th at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise at 7:00 PM EST; available on ESPN+, FDSW TV network or SCRIPPS TV network.


For those who missed out on this exciting matchup or want more insights into future games like these – stay tuned! Share your thoughts about this game using #PanthersVictory online!

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