Lightning strike back with 6-1 rout of Panthers

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty ImagesAfter two straight wins which included an exciting victory against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first big test of the season, the Florida Panthers were blown out on Saturday night. The issue isn't merely a loss, it is a continuation of a problematic trend that could seriously become a barrier in the way of the Panthers second best start in franchise history.

The Panthers 20 5-on-5 goals this season ranks 25th in the NHL. The 6-1 loss featured a lone even-strength goal coming off the stick of Frank Vatrano. The Cats struggles in even-strength is continuing to build up and is becoming an evident complication. While it may not have affected the result of the…