Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
Florida Panthers offense exploded late, and history followed right behind it.
During their latest comeback win, the Panthers poured in five goals in the third period, tying a franchise record that has now stood across generations. It was one of those stretches where momentum snowballed, the building tilted, and the game flipped completely.
This wasn't just noise on the scoresheet. Five third-period goals have only been done six times in Panthers history, including this one. The most recent came just months ago, during Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final against Carolina on May 24, 2025, a night that helped define a championship run.
That's the context that matters. This team has built a reputation for pushing hardest when games tighten. Whether it's playoff hockey or a regular-season grind, Florida has shown it can overwhelm opponents late with pressure, pace, and depth.
The earlier examples stretch back decades, from 1999 in Phoenix to 2006 against Tampa Bay, then through stops in Atlanta, Winnipeg, and now back to the present core. Different rosters, different eras, same result, five goals when it mattered most.
Late pressure defines modern Florida Panthers
Here's the fan truth, this didn't feel fluky. It felt familiar. The Panthers didn't score five because bounces went their way. They scored five because they tilted the ice. Forecheck pressure stacked shifts. Defenders pinched aggressively. The pace never let up.
Tactically, Florida's third-period identity has become a calling card. Shorter benches from opponents, tired legs on the back end, and Florida's ability to roll lines create openings. When the Panthers sense vulnerability, they attack it relentlessly.
There's also an emotional edge. Scoring once brings hope. Scoring twice brings noise. By the third and fourth, opponents are chasing shadows. Five goals is domination, not luck.