Wed Apr 30 23:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Panthers and Stars One Win Away From Next Round as Avalanche, Lightning Face Elimination

**DENVER, CO & SUNRISE, FL** – The Florida Panthers and Dallas Stars are on the verge of advancing to the second round of the 2025 NHL Playoffs after dominant victories on Monday. Both teams now hold a 3-1 series lead, leaving the Tampa Bay Lightning and Colorado Avalanche fighting for survival.

The Panthers defeated the Lightning 2-0, with Anton Lundell scoring the opening goal, assisted by Brad Marchand and Eetu Luostarinen. While Florida’s offense was otherwise muted, Marchand’s strong performance was a highlight. The game saw a controversial overturned goal for the Lightning due to an offside call. Aaron Ekblad eventually scored a legitimate goal to tie the game before the Panthers ultimately secured the win.

The Stars, meanwhile, secured a convincing 5-2 victory over the Avalanche. After Colorado mounted a comeback, narrowing the gap to 3-2, a penalty by Sam Malinski shifted the momentum back to Dallas. The Stars capitalized on the ensuing power play, scoring two quick goals to secure the victory. While Avalanche goalie Mackenzie Blackwood had previously been a standout performer, he struggled in Game 5, allowing five goals on 18 shots before being replaced. Stars goalie Jake Oettinger delivered a strong performance, thwarting several key Avalanche scoring opportunities.

The Lightning will attempt to stave off elimination in Game 5 on the road Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. ET, while the Avalanche will host a crucial Game 6 against the Stars on Thursday. The pressure is on for both teams to avoid being eliminated from the playoffs.

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