The Florida Panthers defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs by a 6-1 final score in Game 5. This win was undoubtedly a massive one for the Panthers, as they now have a 3-2 series lead over the Leafs and the opportunity to take the series at home in Game 6.

While the Panthers' offense undoubtedly stepped up in Game 6, goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky's performance cannot be ignored. The 36-year-old netminder was excellent for the Panthers in their big win, saving 31 out of 32 Maple Leafs shots he faced. This was after he had a 23-save shutout against the Maple Leafs in Game 4.

Aaron Ekblad has noticed Bobrovsky's excellent play, as the star Panthers defenseman had some big-time praise for his goalie following Game 5.

"We're proud every night to play in front of that guy because he's going to give his best effort every night," Ekblad said about Bobrovsky to reporters, including the Fourth Period's David Pagnotta.

It is hard to disagree with Ekblad's take on Bobrovsky, as the veteran goaltender has been excellent for the Panthers for several years now. Bobrovsky currently has a 7-3-0 record, a 2.46 goals-against average, and two shutouts so far this playoffs. Thus, he is certainly making a positive impact.

Bobrovsky will now look to stay hot when the Panthers take on the Maple Leafs in Game 6 on May 16. If he does, it will certainly help the Panthers' chances of picking up a victory and knocking out the Leafs.

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