Panthers Blow Game in Third Period Again

The Florida Panthers fell victim to another poor third period in their 5-3 loss to the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday.

This marked the second time in a week that Florida had a lead entering the third period, only to see it result in a tough defeat. The last time came on Monday when Florida took a 2-0 lead into the final period, and skated off the ice 20 minutes later with a 3-2 loss.

This time around, the Panthers held a one-goal advantage before Detroit scored three times in the third period alone. It was a difficult loss for Florida which had some positive momentum going. Florida did not trail for a second during the first two periods, and had actor Kevin Spacey in attendance who drew a thunderous ovation from the fans when he was introduced.

Nick Bjugstad got Florida on the board first with his 13th goal of the season during the first period. With an assist from Jiri Hudler, the Panthers had a 1-0 lead at the 10:49 mark.

Following a Detroit goal, Vincent Trocheck gave Florida a 2-1 lead in the second period with his 22nd score of the season. Trocheck's goal which came at the 7:08 mark had an assist on it from both Jussi Jokinen and Reilly Smith.

Just under six minutes later, Florida would expand its lead to 3-1 with what ended up being its final score of the game. Teddy Purcell put home his 13th goal of the year which came with help from Nick Bjugstad.

Roberto Luongo ended up with 25 saves and had a solid game going until the third period meltdown took place. Luongo was also in net for the aforementioned loss against the New York Islanders on Monday.