Panthers Take Commanding Lead, But Sam Reinhart Injury Sparks Controversy
The Florida Panthers started Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals just as they had hoped—on fire. After a dominant Game 1 victory, the defending champions stormed into Raleigh with confidence, quickly building a 4-0 lead against the Carolina Hurricanes at the PNC Arena. But the mood shifted dramatically when forward Sam Reinhart was forced out with an injury, turning the game’s tone from celebratory to contentious.
Per #FlaPanthers PR, Sam Reinhart (lower body) will not return tonight.
— Katie Engleson (@KatieEngleson) May 23, 2025
The incident unfolded with five minutes left in the first period. Reinhart, one of Florida’s key offensive weapons, took a hip check from Carolina’s Sebastian Aho. Though the play initially looked routine, Reinhart appeared in clear pain as he left the ice. Minutes later, rinkside reporter Katie Engleson confirmed via social media that Reinhart had sustained a lower-body injury and would not return to the game.
That single announcement set off a wave of outrage among Panthers fans. Many accused Aho of intentionally targeting Reinhart’s knees, branding the hit as dirty and unsportsmanlike. Social media erupted with criticism, with fans labeling the move a “cheap shot” and questioning whether such tactics belonged in playoff hockey.
Though the NHL has not yet made any official ruling on the hit, the fallout is already rippling through the series. Reinhart has been an instrumental figure for the Panthers all season, both as a scorer and a leader. His absence raises significant questions about Florida’s ability to maintain momentum in a high-stakes playoff run.
Whether the hit was intentional or not remains up for debate, but its impact is undeniable. A series that seemed under Florida’s control has now been clouded by controversy, injuries, and emotions running high on both sides.
With Reinhart’s status uncertain for the remainder of the series, all eyes are now on the Panthers—not just to win, but to respond.