The Panthers had no control over their destiny, solely relying on the Rangers to win in regulation against the Flyers this afternoon. Dependent on a Rangers regulation win, the Panthers also had to win their remaining two games against Buffalo and Boston respectively, proving that there were just too many variables involved.
First step: the Rangers needed to win in regulation, as a win in overtime or even shootout wouldn’t do it. Unfortunately, after the results came in, the Rangers lost, and they lost in the worst possible fashion: in regulation. The Rangers were thrashed 5-0, ultimately losing hold of their game as early in the second period.