The Florida Panthers will try to close out their Stanley Cup Playoffs first-round series vs. the Tampa Bay Lightning Wednesday night in Game 5. Learn how you can watch for free if you don't have cable. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)AP
SUNRISE, Fla. — In enemy territory, although roughly four hours from their home arena, the Florida Panthers have the chance to punch their ticket to the second round of the playoffs with a victory in Game 5 over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Wednesday’s Game 5 is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. Eastern, with coverage on ESPN2.
Several streaming services will broadcast the game live, and you can watch on Fubo (free trial), DirecTV Stream (free trial) or Sling (promotional offers).
The Panthers and Lightning haven’t just been trading goals in this series — they’ve been trading momentum swings, bruises and controversial hits. Now, with Florida holding a 3-1 series lead, Game 5 in Tampa is more than just staying alive for the Lightning. It’s about pride, resilience and proving they still belong in the postseason conversation.
Florida’s Game 4 comeback was the kind of moment that can define a playoff run.
Aaron Ekblad and Seth Jones scored 11 seconds apart in the final minutes of the third period, erasing a one-goal deficit and flipping the game on its head.
The Panthers have shown they can match Tampa’s skill, physicality and grit, but Game 4 was the first time they overcame scoreboard adversity. Before that, they had mostly played from ahead or controlled play.
Tampa, meanwhile, is reeling.
Goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy has been strong, but the team in front of him has buckled under pressure late in games.
Brandon Hagel’s injury after a high hit from Ekblad adds another layer of concern, especially given the chippy, escalating tone of the series. The Lightning have now lost three straight and emotions are high.
Whether it’s frustration over officiating, a faltering penalty kill or simply being a step slower, Tampa looks like a team fighting more than just Florida — they’re fighting time.
This year, knowing that the closeout game can be the most difficult, Florida will need to keep its composure.
Here’s how you can watch:
What: Florida Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Lightning: NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs first round, Game 5
When: Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. Eastern
Where: Amalie Arena | Tampa, Fla.
Channel: ESPN2
Best Streaming Options: Fubo (free trial), DirecTV Stream (free trial), Sling (promotional offers)
Channel finder if you have cable: You can access the channel by using the channel finders online: Verizon Fios, Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum/Charter, Optimum/Altice, DIRECTV and Dish.
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