Some Panthers shock reporters with what they decided to go after 4th-overtime win!

With just 12.7 seconds remaining in the fourth overtime, Matthew Tkachuk put his Florida Panthers over by getting a 3-2 win over the Carolina Hurricanes in the first game of their Eastern conference final. This was a game that felt like it could last forever, but Tkachuk beat Hurricanes goalie Freddie Andersen just in time to prevent a fifth overtime.

After the game, Tkachuk admitted that he was looking forever for some food and some sleep, though some of his teammates had a different plan. According to Mark Lazerus of the Athletic, some Panthers players were riding stationary bike outside the team’s dressing room after the contest. While Lazerus knows there is some scientific explanation to it, he still couldn’t believe it. And I’m there with him.

I was exhausted just watching the game from bed : I cannot believe how diligent these players about their bodies and making sure they stay safe for this series that could go all the way.

Florida’s previous record for longest game was 104:31 in Game 4 of the 1996 Stanley Cup final against Colorado. Carolina’s previous record was 114:47 for Game 3 of the 2002 Stanley Cup final. The teams each lost those games.

I praise these guys. And I cannot wait for Game 2 on Saturday. 

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