Panthers Rally Past Kings 2-1 Behind Matthew Tkachuk’s Third Period Winner

Matthew Tkachuk Scores Third Period Goal

The Florida Panthers overcame an early deficit and the loss of Brad Marchand to injury, rallying for a 2-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night. Matthew Tkachuk scored with 8:40 remaining in the third period, finishing off a setup from Sam Bennett to give Florida its first regulation victory of the season after each of its first three games had gone to overtime.

Seth Jones also scored for the Panthers, while goaltender Jacob Markstrom stopped 19 of 20 shots. The Kings, meanwhile, dropped their home opener and remained winless through their first three games.

Kings Take Lead Despite Panthers’ Strong Start

Los Angeles found itself on the back foot for much of the opening period, but the Kings capitalized late to take a 1-0 lead into the first intermission. Alex Laferriere put the Kings ahead with one minute remaining in the period, finishing Erik Haula’s cross-slot pass to give Los Angeles the lead despite Florida controlling much of the early play.

The Panthers answered with a strong defensive sequence early in the second period, killing off an extended Kings power play that included 1:21 of five-on-three play. Florida’s penalty kill kept the game within reach before Jones tied it at 3:49 of the second period, scoring just seconds after the Panthers returned to even strength.

Tkachuk Delivers Game Winner

The game remained tied into the third period before Bennett and Tkachuk connected to put Florida ahead. With 8:40 left in regulation, Bennett found a trailing Tkachuk in the left circle, and Tkachuk finished the opportunity to give the Panthers their first lead of the night.

Bennett recorded an assist for the third consecutive game, while Tkachuk has now totaled two goals and an assist during that same three-game stretch. Kuemper kept the Kings within striking distance throughout the night, making 26 saves, but Los Angeles could not find the equalizer.

Marchand Leaves With Leg Injury

The victory came at a cost for Florida, as Marchand left the game late in the third period after suffering an apparent left leg injury. With 52.6 seconds remaining, Kings defenseman Brandt Clarke’s stick caught Marchand in the face. The high stick caused Marchand to twist and collide with the right goal post, with his left leg bending back awkwardly during the collision.

Marchand was unable to continue, leaving the Panthers to protect their one-goal advantage without one of their key forwards. Florida held on to secure the 2-1 victory and improved its record while extending Los Angeles’ winless start.

The Panthers return home Saturday to host the Minnesota Wild. The Kings will remain at home before traveling to face the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday.