On This Date: Bill Lindsay Scores Most Iconic Goal In Panthers History, Clinching Florida's First Playoff Series
TL;DR
On April 27, 1996, Bill Lindsay scored a memorable diving goal, clinching the Florida Panthers' first-ever playoff series against the Boston Bruins. This iconic moment remains a significant part of the franchise's history.
Key points
- Bill Lindsay scored a diving goal on April 27, 1996
- The goal clinched the Panthers' first playoff series
- The Panthers defeated the Boston Bruins in Game 5
- The game was played at Miami Arena
- This moment is a significant part of Panthers history
Mentioned in this story
We’ve hit another significant date in Florida Panthers history.
This time, the moment that occurred on this particular date was one that remained the lasting image of any early success found by the franchise for decade upon decade.
We’re talking, of course, about the diving, series-clinching goal scored by Billy Lindsay during Game 5 of the first playoff series the Panthers ever played, against the Boston Bruins.
The game was played on Saturday, April 27, 1996 at Miami Arena in Downtown Miami.
With the game tied at three late in the third period, Lindsay picked up the puck in the neutral zone and zoomed up the right-side boards.
With the puck on his stick, Lindsay drove toward the net and past Hall of Fame defenseman Ray Bourque, who tripped Lindsay just as he reached the goal.
Lindsay managed to tip the puck between the legs of Bruins goaltender Bill Ranford as he slid through the crease and out the other side.
Miami Arena exploded in jubilation, and the Panthers went on to knock out the Bruins in five games.
Florida then took out the high-flying Philadelphia Flyers in six games and the powerhouse Pittsburgh Penguins in seven, making the team’s first Stanley Cup Final appearance in just its third season of existence.
Unfortunately, the lack of playoff success in the coming decades would keep the image of Lindsay’s goal as the quintessential moment of ultimate Panthers postseason glory, a reminder of their improbable run to the Stanley Cup Final.
Stay tuned for more reminders of fun Panthers playoff successs in the coming weeks and months.
In the meantime, let us know in the comments where you were when Lindsay scored his remarkable goal and how you remember seeing it go down!
LATEST STORIES FROM THE HOCKEY NEWS - FLORIDA
Charlotte Checkers Eliminated From Calder Cup Playoffs Following Game 3 Overtime Loss
On This Date: Panthers Stay Alive With OT Win In Boston, Sparking Epic Postseason Run
The Hockey Show: Panthers-less Postseason Off To Strong Start, Greg Wyshynski Invades Philly
Pair Of Panthers Trainers Join Brett Peterson, Bill Zito On Team USA World Championship Staff
Charlotte Earns Dominant Game 1 Win, Receive Contributions From Several Panthers Call-Ups
Ice Removed From Amerant Bank Arena Following End To Panthers Season
Q&A
What date did Bill Lindsay score the iconic goal for the Panthers?
Bill Lindsay scored the iconic goal on April 27, 1996.
Which team did the Florida Panthers defeat to clinch their first playoff series?
The Florida Panthers defeated the Boston Bruins to clinch their first playoff series.
What was the significance of Bill Lindsay's goal in Panthers history?
Bill Lindsay's goal is considered the most iconic moment in Panthers history, marking their first playoff series victory.
