The Florida Panthers were embarrassed on home ice in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference Semifinal series against the Tampa Bay Lightning, 4-1. That was not the only blow, as defenseman Ben Chiarot was also fined for a head butt on Lightning's Ross Colton. The incident happened midway through the second period. At that time, the Panthers led 1-0. It appears as though that got Tampa Bay fired up, as they would score four unanswered goals.

Chiarot technically could have been suspended for his actions, which would have really put the Panthers in a tight spot. Instead, the NHL hit Chiarot with a $5,000 fine, the most allowed under the current collective bargaining agreement.

The Panthers were the best team in hockey this year, winning the President's Trophy, given to the team with the most points every year. However, things have not come easily in the post season. It took six grueling games to dispatch the Washington Capitals, winning Game 6 in overtime.

The Panthers reward is facing the two-time defending Stanley Cup Champion Lightning. Even though Tampa Bay finished third in the Atlantic Division this year, they were no worse than in prior years. The beat the talented Toronto Maple Leafs in seven games, setting up this conference semifinal series with Florida.

Chiarot logged just under 18 minutes of ice time, paired alongside MacKenzie Weegar. Chiarot is one of the most physical players on the Panthers roster and Florida needs him to stay out of the penalty box. The Lightning scored three power play goals in Game 1.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Matthew Tkachuk, Brandon Montour and Sergei Bobrovsky in image, Stanley Cup in background, FLA Panthers logo, hockey rink in background

Colin Gallant ·

If Tampa Bay wins Game 2, the Panthers would likely be in a hole that might be too much to overcome.