Panthers Outlast Wild

     The Florida Panthers extended their franchise record win streak to nine games as they topped the Minnesota Wild 2-1 at BB&T Center on Sunday night. The Panthers, who were able to sweep a six-game homestand, have won nine of their last ten games and 15 of their last 18. They play their next six games on the road which covers a two-week period.
     Florida(23-12-4) was able score on their first shift 27 seconds into the game. Jonathan Huberdeau picked up the loose puck on a giveaway at the left point and passed across to Dmitry Kulikov. He passed ahead to Jaromir Jagr in the slot area and he scored on a backhand shot by Devan Dubnyk.
     Minnesota(20-11-7) evened it up at 1-1 just 48 seconds into the second period. Ryan Suter took a shot from the left point which was blocked in the slot area. Mikko Koivu had the puck in the left circle and centered it to Jason Zucker. His initial shot was saved however he scored on the rebound with a backhand shot past Al Montoya.
    In the third period, Jagr would collect his second goal of the game and his team-high 13th goal of the campaign at 8:52 for the Cats to regain the lead 2-1. Brandon Pirri made a cross-ice pass in the neutral zone to Jagr on the right wing. He entered the Wild zone, cut to the middle and snapped a shot from the high slot through traffic. Jagr compiled his 735th NHL goal which is six goals behind Brett Hull for third all-time.