Sat Dec 07 23:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Panthers’ Hot Power Play Fuels Winning Streak Against Sharks
**Sunrise, FL** – The Florida Panthers, riding a four-game winning streak and boasting the NHL’s third-best power play, look to extend their success against the San Jose Sharks Saturday at Amerant Bank Arena. Their recent surge includes a thrilling 7-5 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, where they scored four power-play goals.
Over their last five games, the Panthers have converted an impressive 52.6% (10 of 19) of their power-play opportunities. Key players like Matthew Tkachuk (27 points in 19 games), Sam Reinhart (team-leading 37 points, six power-play goals), and Aleksander Barkov (27 points) are leading the offensive charge. Defenseman Aaron Ekblad praised the team’s power-play execution, highlighting the talent of their skilled players.
Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky returns to the net after a brief absence to welcome a new child, bringing a 13-5-2 career record against San Jose. Rookie forward Mackie Samoskevich has been recalled from the AHL to fill the roster spot vacated by Chris Driedger, who was sent back down.
The Sharks, winners of four of their last six but coming off an 8-1 drubbing by the Tampa Bay Lightning, present a different challenge. Despite a slow start to the season, San Jose boasts offensive talent in Mikael Granlund (29 points) and William Eklund (23 points). The Panthers’ coaching staff is particularly wary of the Sharks’ highly touted rookie, Macklin Celebrini, the first-overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, who is showing great potential.
The Panthers are aiming for their third win against the Sharks this season, looking to continue their winning ways with their potent power play and a strong performance from their star players. The game starts at 6 p.m. ET at Amerant Bank Arena.
First Piper 