Lightning Cover Panthers

     The Tampa Bay Lightning triumphed over the Florida Panthers 6-2 on Thursday night at Amalie Arena. The Panthers lost their first preseason contest after winning their opening five games. Both clubs will conclude the preseason schedule against each other on Saturday night in Sunrise.

     There was no scoring in the first period by both clubs. Anthony Cirelli gave the Bolts a 1-0 lead at the 3:25 mark of the second. 

     Florida evened it up 1-1 at 9:49 of the second period. Joe Thornton scored his first goal in a Panthers uniform. 

     Tampa Bay capped the frame to make it 3-1. Lightning newcomer Corey Perry put in goals with 9:39 left and 2:24 remaining. 

     The Lightning extended their lead to 5-1 during the third period. Steven Stamkos found the net with two power-play goals 20 seconds and 46 seconds into the third. 

     The Panthers cut the deficit to 5-2 with 7:41 to go. Owen Tippett compiled his third goal of the preseason. Pat Maroon wrapped it up for Tampa Bay on a tally with 1:12 left.