At a Glance
- Rangers defeat Panthers 5-1 in Florida’s first NHL outdoor game
- Mika Zibanejad scores a hat-trick and posts five points
- Game played at loanDepot Park in 63°F weather, the second-warmest outdoor contest
- Why it matters: The win showcases the Rangers’ dominance in outdoor play and marks a milestone for NHL hockey in the Sunshine State
The New York Rangers faced the Florida Panthers on Friday night in the first NHL outdoor game in the Sunshine State, played at loanDepot Park with an open roof and 63°F temperature. The Rangers won 5-1, improving their outdoor record to 6-0-0.
Game Highlights
Mika Zibanejad led the effort with a hat-trick and two assists, becoming the fourth player to reach five points in a single game. Artemi Panarin added two goals, Alexis Lafrenière tallied three assists, and Igor Shesterkin stopped 36 shots. Florida was outshot 37-20, recorded 38 hits to the Rangers’ 20, and had 27 shot attempts blocked.
Quotes & Reactions
Mika Zibanejad said:
> “I think it’s hard to grasp the whole day,” “But yeah, a great 12, 16 hours. It’s been a fun day.”
Mika Zibanejad added:
> “We have amazing support wherever we go.”
Mike Sullivan remarked:
> “He’s one of our core players,” “We rely on him in so many circumstances out there on both sides of the puck.”
Paul Maurice praised the event:
> “The NHL deserved enormous credit for pulling off an event he called “spectacular.””
> “A Southern setting (and) the ice was fine,” “The spectacle was incredible. It was just brilliant, the entire kind of weekend. … I would imagine the Rangers really loved it. But for the losing coach, it was an incredible memory.”
Aaron Ekblad commented:
> “Awesome experience,” “Really happy I was able to experience something like this. Would have loved to get the win, but at the end of the day, a true first-class experience.”
Mike Sullivan reflected:
> “If you would have asked me 25 years ago … this might be the last place that I thought it would take place,” “So, I just think it speaks volumes for technology and its advancements and the ability to put a sheet of ice down in this type of environment.”
Statistical Snapshot
| Category | Rangers | Panthers |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 5 | 1 |
| Shots | 20 | 37 |
| Hits | 20 | 38 |
| Saves | 36 | – |
The game was played in 63°F, the second-warmest of any NHL outdoor contest that counts in the standings.
Key Takeaways
- Rangers maintain a perfect 6-0-0 record in outdoor play.
- Mika Zibanejad’s five points highlight his offensive impact.
- Florida’s first outdoor game ends in a loss, their fourth defeat in six outings.
The Rangers head to a home series against Utah next, while the Panthers prepare to face Colorado in the coming weeks.
