Evan Rodrigues (© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)The Florida Panthers are set to face off against the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game 5 of the second round on May 14. This is a big game, as the winner of this matchup will take a 3-2 lead in the series.
Unfortunately, the Panthers will be without one of their key forwards for the contest. While speaking to reporters, including TSN's Chris Johnston, Panthers head coach Paul Maurice announced that Evan Rodrigues is out for Game 5. In addition, Maurice shared that Jesper Boqvist will replace Rodrigues in the lineup.
When asked by The Hockey News' David Dwork about Rodrigues potentially returning to the lineup for Game 6, Maurice said it was too early to determine that and that the Panthers forward is considered day-to-day.
This is a tough blow for the Panthers, as Rodrigues is a solid part of the club's forward group. However, they will now need to adjust without him in the lineup in a huge Game 5 from here.
In nine playoff games this year thus far, Rodrigues has three assists and a minus-2 rating. This is after he had 15 goals and 32 points in 82 games this regular-season for the Cats.
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