The Florida Panthers had a great start to the season, recording six points in three home games. Sergei Bobrovsky, a two-time Vezina Trophy winner, faced 67 shots and allowed five goals overall in three starts.
During the five-game road trip, it makes sense that Florida’s goalies would share responsibilities. Starting against the Philadelphia Flyers was a chance to test the waters with Daniil Tarasov.
The home team scored nine minutes into the game with a direct shot from Tyson Foerster. While it wasn’t ideal timing, the first goal might be related to stress and overexcitement. After that, Tarasov made some solid saves, moved well, and showed much improvement in his positioning and control since being traded from the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Sean Couturier scored on a breakaway to give the Flyers a 2-0 lead. The combination of shots were excellent and wouldn’t leave any goalie a chance. Both goals were consequences of the Panthers’ turnovers.
Before the third puck got in, Tarasov’s stick was kicked out of his hand. There wasn’t much time to react and play effectively after regaining control. Then, there was another beauty from Sean Couturier.Two empty netters followed.
Panthers head coach Paul Maurice praised his new goalie despite allowing a couple of goals. “He gets across the net real hard, talks to his D-men. He was fine,” Maurice said.
Tarasov made 17 saves and allowed three goals in 57:58 on ice in his debut. The Panthers ended up with 26 shots, 15 blocks, 24 hits, 17 giveaways, and 51% on the face-off. They lost their first road game 5-2.