Panthers Extend Lead in Atlantic With Win in Toronto

The Florida Panthers picked up a 4-1 win over the Toronto Maple Leads on Thursday and now have a three-point lead in the Atlantic Division.

With second-place Boston idle, Florida took advantage of an opportunity to pad its lead easily. The Panthers have 89 points on the year now and a little breathing room in the division. Florida recently saw its division lead evaporate and had been sitting in third place.

Jussi Jokinen had himself a big night and it started at the 0:24 second mark of the second period. After a scoreless opening period, Jokinen's 14th goal of the year made it a 1-0 game. The power play game came unassisted.

Jokinen would add to the lad himself at the 9:22 mark when he put Florida up 2-0. This goal which was Jokinen's 15th of the season also had no assist on it. The veteran did a tremendous job of positioning himself for big shots, without any help.

After Toronto cut into the score a little, the Panthers would answer back twice during the third period. Jaromir Jagr who continues to shine found the back of an empty net for his 24th goal of the year. Brian Campbell would assist on the score.

With 24 seconds remaining, Teddy Purcell also put the puck into the empty net. The goal was Purcell's 12th of the season and came with help from Nick Bjugstad and Jiri Hudler.

Roberto Luongo did a great job of putting his last performance behind him. After allowing three goals in the third period of a tough loss, Luongo stopped 32 of the 33 tries sent his way in this win.