Desperate Panthers turn to former Leaf down 3-0 and in jeopardy of being swept
The Florida Panthers have been thoroughly trounced in 3 straight games by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Now that their backs are against the wall, Jack Adams candidate Andrew Brunette is pulling out all the stops. Joe Thornton will dress for game 4. At 42 years old, Jumbo is on what is more than likely his last shot at a Stanley Cup, its only right that he draws in with that last shot on the line. Him drawing into the lineup is a clear sign that the Panthers are not only desperate, but they believe this could be the end of their playoff run.
Thornton's stat line this year is less than impressive. The London, Ontario native only played 34 games this season, scoring 5 goals and adding 5 assists. Playing Thornton may be a bad plan for the Panthers, his lack of footspeed could prove to be a major weakness against the speedy Lightning. Its a risky move by Florida. I have to think that this is more about doing right by Thornton than it is about winning the game.
If the Lightning do sweep the Panthers with a win tonight, it may take some of the sting away from the Leafs first round exit. The Lightning are the 2 time champs for a reason. It seems that both the Leafs and Panthers are learning exactly why that is. Although, the Leafs did put up a much better fight. In truth, the battle of Florida hasn't been much of a battle at all.
Of course, that could all change tonight as the puck drops on game 4. Expect the Panthers to come out of the gate flying as they attempt to save their season. It may be too little too late though, the Lightning look unstoppable at this point. They'll need some true Jumbo Joe heroics if they are to stand a chance in this series.
