Goalie Alex Lyon, who came on as a substitute in this week’s game against the Montreal Canadiens, guided the Florida Panthers to a 5-3 win over the Minnesota Wild at the FLA Live Arena on Saturday.
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Lyon finished the game with 29 saves from 32 shots, which he faced in his first start of the season. This is his ninth career win.
Gustav Forsling gave his team a break midway through the third period by doubling Florida’s lead. The defender advanced to the center of the offensive zone to collect a loose puck and fire an accurate shot into the top corner.
A few minutes earlier, the Wilden had reduced the deficit to a single net through Joel Eriksson Ek on the power play.
In the second half, the local favorites scored twice. Carter Verhaeghe scored, especially at the end of the second period. Goalkeeper Filip Gustavsson missed his powerful shot from the left circle. Eetu Luostarinen also shook the ropes in the second period.
Days after signing a $49 million deal, Matt Boldy celebrated with his 14th goal of the season in the loss.
It was Anton Lundell who scored the first goal at the end of the first period. With 12 seconds remaining, the Finnish spinner was forgotten behind the defenders and surprised the opposing goalkeeper with a U-turn.
Jared Spurgeon and Sam Reinhart traded goals after 87 seconds of play to complete the goal.