Today’s game featured backup net minders for both teams; as quality veterans James Reimer and Darcy Kuemper were prepared to engage themselves in an intensified duel. As the puck dropped, luck didn’t appear to be in Florida’s favor. While attempting to maintain possession in the offensive zone, Radim Vrbata courageously let up against the boards to knock down a flying puck.
Unfortunately, Vrbata’s valiant effort proved costly; as he suffered an upper-body injury (blood dripping from face) which consequently caused Radim to miss the remainder of the game. Florida was applying consistent pressure offensively, but Kuemper continuously stopped scoring opportunities directed towards his vicinity.