The Carolina Hurricanes shot out to a two-goal lead in the first period of Game 5, but the Florida Panthers rallied to post a 5-3, series-clinching win at Lenovo Center in Raleigh.

The Panthers stormed back from a 2-0 deficit in the first period and overwhelmed the Carolina Hurricanes yet again, winning 5-3 and winning the Eastern Conference Finals in five games. The Panthers are now awaiting the winner of the Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars. Edmonton holds a 3-1 advantage in the Western Conference Finals.

The Edmonton Oilers are returning to the Stanley Cup Final after eliminating the Dallas Stars in five games, setting the stage for a rematch against the reigning champions Florida Panthers . The NHL announced the full schedule for the best-of-seven series on Thursday night following Edmonton’s 6-3 win in Game 5.

The Florida Panthers want a repeat of last year's playoff result, and what they did with the Prince of Wales Trophy was no different.

The Florida Panthers and Carolina Hurricanes meet in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Final in the Stanley Cup Playoffs Wednesday in Raleigh, N.C.

Outdoor game between Florida Panthers and New York Rangers set for Jan. 2, 2026 at loanDepot park in Miami

The Florida Panthers missed a chance to close out their series vs. the Carolina Hurricanes, but hit the road again, where they've played their best.

He gave us a chance to hold the whole way and that’s all you can ask for, especially when you have a game like that.’