The Florida Derby is just around the corner. But we’re not referring to the horse racing event; we’re referring to Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs featuring the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Amalie Arena is set to host a showdown between two powerhouse teams from the Atlantic Division, with significant implications on the line. It’s shaping up to be an intense showdown, and fans are well that there will be battles all over the ice. For the Panthers, it’s Brad Marchand, Matthew Tkachuk, and Sam Bennett who are expected to bring the heat and explosiveness to the series with their physicality, and ability to rile up opponents.

The combination of these three in one team may still seem like a fantasy to many fans, though they are yet to watch all 3 on the ice together. As these players emerge as pivotal figures for the Panthers, there’s a potential target from the Lightning that could come into play during the game. Who might that be?

During an episode of The Steve Dangle Podcast on YouTube, NHL analyst Steve Dangle remarked, “Kucherov gets both kinds of mad. He gets I’m going to obliterate you and turn into the best player in the world mad. And I’m gonna take my b*** and go home man. If you can get him to be take my b*** and go home mad. You win the series. No problem.”

Nikita Kucherov delivered an outstanding performance during the 2024-25 NHL season with the Tampa Bay Lightning, clinching his third Art Ross Trophy by topping the league with 121 points (37 goals, 84 assists) across 78 games. This accomplishment positions him alongside NHL greats who have secured the scoring title on three or more occasions. Kucherov’s playmaking played a crucial role in the Lightning’s offensive achievements, helping them secure a league-leading goals-per-game average and a highly ranked power play.

In the Stanley Cup Playoffs, he is the player to watch for the Panthers. Dangle emphasized that if either Marchand or Tkachuk can engage in their psychological tactics and become physical with Kucherov, various outcomes could unfold. The forward from Tampa Bay is chiefly acknowledged for his outstanding offensive talents and playmaking prowess, rather than for any aggressive or physical style of play.

Nonetheless, there have been moments throughout his career when his conduct on the ice has garnered scrutiny due to its intensity. In December 2024, Kucherov faced ejection from a game after a knee-on-knee collision with the Panthers’ Tkachuk, leading to a major penalty and game misconduct. The matchup between the two franchises promises to be thrilling. Have you heard the latest remarks from the Panthers’ coach?

Florida Panthers’ coach sharing an update with a major message

Those familiar with the NHL landscape are likely aware that the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning share a fierce rivalry. Amidst the intensity on the ice, Panthers coach Paul Maurice remarked, “I think there’s a really healthy respect.” For many years, these two franchises have been locked in a fierce rivalry, with matches frequently coming down to the wire. However, Maurice did affirm that the two teams hold nothing but respect for one another. What remarkable sportsmanship!

In a recent statement, the Panthers’ coach not only addressed the intense rivalry between the two teams but also provided a significant update about the franchise, declaring, “Everybody is possible for Game 1.” For those not in the loop regarding the Panthers, it’s important to note that one of their key players has been placed on the injury reserve. Who could it possibly be? Indeed, it was Matthew Tkachuk.

The Panthers forward is sidelined with a groin injury sustained during the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament in February. In early March, the Panthers made the decision to place him on long-term injured reserve, which means he was out for the remainder of the regular season. Tkachuk seems poised to make his much-anticipated comeback at last. Only time will reveal how the Panthers will safeguard their Stanley Cup title.