In sports, if something can go wrong, it often does — just ask the Tampa Bay Lightning. They were eliminated from the NHL playoffs after a hard-fought loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 5, a game that fully lived up to the intensity of the “Battle of Florida.” The match was packed with fierce hits and brutal physicality, including a standout moment involving Brandon Hagel. Unfortunately for the Lightning, the game not only marked the end of their postseason run but also added to their growing list of injuries, many of which came from Florida’s aggressive style of play.
Following the conclusion of their series, news about the team’s extensive injury list quickly circulated online. Key players like Oliver Bjorkstrand and Brandon Hagel were among those sidelined. Bjorkstrand had been out since April 11 with a lower body injury that worsened into a serious case of compartment syndrome. This condition, which involved internal swelling and bleeding, required surgery and urgent medical attention. Meanwhile, Hagel suffered a concussion following a collision with Aaron Ekblad and had already served a suspension for a previous hit on Aleksander Barkov earlier in the series.
Lightning injuries:
Bjorkstrand: (too complicated to write)
Cirelli: MCL Sprain Game 1
Glendening: AC Joint separation
Gourde: Broke a finger Game 1
Hagel: Concussion
Hedman: Broke foot Game 4
Kucherov: Suffered an injury in Feb he was managing
Paul: Tear in left wrist— Evan Closky (@ECloskyWTSP) May 2, 2025
The injury woes didn’t end there. Anthony Cirelli sprained his MCL during Game 1 in an incident with Gustav Forsling. Luke Glendening had already been ruled out prior to the playoffs due to a shoulder separation. Other notable players including Yanni Gourde, Victor Hedman, Nikita Kucherov, and Nicholas Paul were also dealing with injuries, significantly weakening the squad.
Despite the challenges, Lightning head coach Jon Cooper acknowledged the Panthers’ performance and gave them credit. In his post-game remarks, he stated that it was simply Florida’s time to shine. Cooper highlighted Florida’s resilience, pointing to their comeback against Boston two years ago as an example of the team’s learned ability to win under pressure.
Panthers coach Paul Maurice also spoke about the series, acknowledging the competitiveness and intensity that had developed between the two franchises. He noted that both teams are in their prime and that last year’s playoff matchup added fuel to this year’s battle. According to Maurice, the games became more physical and emotional due to their recent history and closely matched capabilities.
Matthew Tkachuk, however, offered a different take on the rivalry. He downplayed the idea of a true rivalry but admitted it was satisfying to beat the Lightning in back-to-back playoff years, both in five games. He emphasized the animosity between the two teams and expressed excitement about their success.
With this victory, the Florida Panthers advanced to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and are set to face the Toronto Maple Leafs as they continue their campaign to defend their championship title.