In short series, Florida Panthers need urgency in Game 1 v Islanders

The Florida Panthers held a morning practice in Toronto on Friday, their last time on ice together before the games start counting for real.

Florida and the New York Islanders kick off a best-of-five Stanley Cup qualifier Saturday at 4 p.m. (FSF, NBCSN, 560-AM) and there is a lot riding on Game 1.

The winner of Saturday’s game not only grabs momentum, but because the first team to three win moves on to the playoffs, has four chances to win two games and keep their season going.

“I think the first game is more important in a best-of-five than it is in a best-of-seven,” Brett Connolly said following the team workout at the Ford Performance Center.