Talk about finishing strong.

Former first-round pick Anton Lundell began to excel in the latter half of his third NHL campaign, peaking at the ideal moment for the Florida Panthers.

The 22-year-old accrued 35 points (13 goals, 22 assists) throughout the regular season, with 22 of these points (11 goals, 11 assists) coming in the last 39 games of the season.

He was quick on the draw and also achieved a career high by winning 54.9% of his faceoffs.

Lundell, who signed a six-year contract extension on July 3, managed to elevate his game when it counted the most, carrying his momentum into the playoffs.

“His performance significantly improved,” said forward Sam Reinhart. “I believe you could see it even before Benny (Sam Bennett) left the game, but definitely after he did. His game soared. He was achieving. He was aggressively playing. I believe it was quite clear. I have nothing but praise for him.”

On the road to the Stanley Cup, the young Finn collected a postseason career high 17 points (three goals, 14 assists) in 24 games, ranking fourth on the team and 10^th in the league.

Lundell’s nine primary assists in the playoffs, which set his linemates up to score, were tied for fifth in the NHL.

“Cats captain and fellow Finn, Aleksander Barkov, praised Lundy (Lundell) for his versatility. “He’s still a young player, but his maturity on the field belies his age. Since joining the league, he’s shown an advanced level of skill and responsibility, taking care of his own zone before moving offensively,” Barkov said. “His exceptional talent has been invaluable to our team each year.”

At times, the most crucial plays in a game may not be noticeable or reflected on the scoresheet.

Throughout the playoff run, Lundell assisted the Panthers in getting to the power play by attracting 20 penalty minutes. Only his teammate Matthew Tkachuk and Edmonton’s Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl had more in the NHL.

Being in good company is suitable for the talented center who has already participated in 54 playoff games in just three seasons.

COOL STAT

There may not be a greater indication of someone adopting the Panthers’ style of play.

Lundell, who was not initially known for his physicality, showed no fear in using his body aggressively this season.

He significantly outperformed his previous regular season hit totals of 26 and 29 by amassing 61 hits in 2023-24, more than doubling his earlier records.

During the playoffs, the Stanley Cup champion, who averaged almost two hits per game with a total of 44 in 24 games, managed to double his previous postseason record of 22.

Look out for Lundy!

BEST GAME

It’s not surprising that one of Lundell’s best games also came in the playoffs, just like his best play.

In Boston, despite leading the second-round series 2-1 but being down 2-0 late in the second period, he stepped up, providing the Cats the boost they required.

He cut the deficit to 2-1 for the first time by one-timing a pass from Evan Rodrigues straight past Jeremy Swayman.

“Lundell stated, “The initial goal was clearly significant for our team. We had a few good opportunities earlier in the game, but scoring in playoffs is challenging. However, we persisted, had a few more chances and eventually made it. We obtained a head start in our game and managed to set the pace. Our line did well.”

Lundell didn’t stop there; he then assisted Bennett in scoring a power-play goal just 3:41 into the third period, evening the score at 2-2.

Lundell ended the game with two points, consisting of one goal and one assist, along with two blocked shots and two hits. He also topped all skaters with a 75.7 Corsi for percentage, contributing to the Panthers’ increase in their series lead to 3-1.

GOAL OF THE YEAR

This season at Amerant Bank Arena, Lundell’s impressive goal, which notably came during overtime, was arguably one of the most remarkable.

He equalized the score at 2-2 against Ottawa and just 1:36 into overtime on Feb. 20, he received a pass from Tkachuk. He then made a tight-angle shot between the circle and redline to defeat Joonas Korpisalo, securing the victory.

“His epic goal is well-deserved,” said Ekblad. “He’s consistently winning puck battles and always making the correct play. Then he goes on to make a spectacular play that could be on ESPN’s Top 10.”

Lundell’s first overtime winner of his emerging career was the goal.

He smiled, “Definitely one of the coolest moments I’ve had in this building.”

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