The Florida Panthers have a massive opportunity in Game 3 against the Carolina Hurricanes. If they stay red-hot and pick up a win, they will have a 3-0 series lead and be one away from advancing to the Stanley Cup Final for the third year in a row.
However, after back-to-back losses, the Hurricanes are going to be motivated to get things back on track in Game 3. Thus, this contest will not be a walk in the park for the Panthers, and they will need these three players to shine because of it.
Sergei Bobrovsky
While the Panthers' offense has been excellent so far this series, Sergei Bobrovsky has also been a major reason for Florida's early success during it. After stopping 31 out of 33 Hurricanes shots in Game 1, he put together a 17-save shutout against the Canes in Game 2. With this, he is certainly feeling it right now.
If Bobrovsky has another outstanding performance between the pipes for the Panthers, it will only help Florida's chances of winning Game 3. Thus, all eyes should be on the 36-year-old tonight.
Matthew Tkachuk
With star forward Sam Reinhart ruled out for Game 3, they are going to need their other top forwards to be on their A-game tonight. This undoubtedly includes Matthew Tkachuk, as he is a major difference-maker when playing at his best.
Tkachuk is coming off an impressive Game 2, as he scored a goal and recorded an assist during it. If he has another performance like that up his sleeve in Game 3 from here, the Panthers should benefit greatly.
Seth Jones
Seth Jones has proven to be an incredible addition to the Panthers' roster since being acquired by the club from the Chicago Blackhawks before the deadline. In 14 games this post-season, he has three goals, six points, and a plus-8 rating.
Overall, Jones has provided offense from the point and has been dependable defensively. Now, the Panthers will need more of that from him in Game 3 as they look to take a stranglehold on this series.
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