Bruins Nip Panthers

     The Boston Bruins edged the Florida Panthers 3-2 in overtime at TD Garden on Saturday. The Bruins are now five points ahead of the Panthers for first place in the Atlantic Division with four games to go. It was the Panthers final regular season away game in 2023-24. 

     Florida(48-24-6) roared out to a 1-0 advantage just 37 seconds into the opening frame. Matthew Tkachuk collected his 25th goal of the season on a wrist show. It was his third straight season with at least 25 goals. 

     Boston(46-17-15) made it 1-1 at the 5:42 mark of the first. Charlie McAvoy chalked up his 11th goal this season with a wrist shot.

     In the second period, the B's claimed the lead 2-1 with 4:15 remaining. Charlie Coyle was able to deflect in a shot during the power play for his 25th goal of the campaign. 

     The Panthers tied it up 2-2 at the 5:24 mark of the third period. Aleksander Barkov snapped a shot from close range for his 23rd goal in 2023-24. Sam Reinhart and Gustav Forsling both had assists on the play. 

     The Bruins wrapped it up in overtime for the 3-2 victory at 2:05. Jesper Boqvist got an unassisted tally for his sixth goal this year.