The second-round playoff series between the Boston Bruins and the Florida Panthers has been fiercely competitive, emphasizing the importance of establishing dominance early on.
Right off the bat on Friday night, David Pastrnak, skating smoothly through the neutral zone, didn't see what was coming as he entered the Panthers' territory.
Sam Bennett was waiting and delivered a crushing hit just moments after the game began.
With the series still early, it's clear that physicality may dictate the victor. Playoff hockey, following a grueling regular season, often comes down to which team can withstand the physical demands.
As the series progresses, it will be crucial to watch if both teams can maintain their intensity and have enough energy left to compete in subsequent rounds should they advance.
