Talk about finishing strong.

Anton Lundell, a former first-round pick, gained momentum in the second half of his third NHL campaign, peaking at the perfect time for the Florida Panthers.

The 22-year-old accumulated 35 points (13 goals, 22 assists) throughout the regular season, with 22 of these points (11 goals, 11 assists) earned 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 in the playoffs, riding on the momentum he had built.

“His game truly improved,” stated forward Sam Reinhart. “I believe his improvement became evident even before Benny (Sam Bennett) left, but it was definitely more noticeable afterwards. He stepped up. He was productive. He played hard. I think 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 up his linemates to score, were tied for fifth place in the NHL.

“Lundy (Lundell) is a versatile player,” stated the Cats captain and fellow Finn, Aleksander Barkov. “Despite his young age, he demonstrates a maturity in his game that’s beyond his years. From the time he joined the league, he’s been managing his zone before focusing on the offensive aspect of his game. He’s an exceptionally skilled player. His performance for us each year has been extraordinary.”

At times, the most crucial plays in a game may not be noticeable and might not appear on the scoresheet.

During the playoffs, Lundell aided the Panthers by drawing 20 penalty minutes, thus leading them to the power play. In the NHL, only his teammate Matthew Tkachuk, and Edmonton’s Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl drew more penalties.

This is a good company 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 embracing the Panthers’ style of play.

Lundell, not initially recognized as a particularly physical player, showed no fear in using his body assertively this season.

In the 2023-24 regular season, he compiled 61 hits, more than doubling his previous totals of 26 and 29.

The Stanley Cup champion, in the playoffs, averaged almost two hits per game totaling 44 in 24 games. This was twice 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, where he made his best play.

While leading the second-round series 2-1 in Boston but behind 2-0 late in the second period, he stepped up and provided the much-needed energy for the Cats.

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

“Lundell expressed, “The first goal was clearly a significant boost for our team. We had some promising opportunities earlier in the game, but scoring in playoffs is challenging. Regardless, we persevered, created more chances and eventually succeeded. This gave us a head start in our game and set the pace. Our line did well.”

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

Lundell ended the game with a tally of two points, including one goal and one assist, two blocked shots, and two hits. He led all skaters with a 75.7% Corsi for percentage, aiding the Panthers to increase their series lead to 3-1.

GOAL OF THE YEAR

Lundell’s snipe of the year, which was undoubtedly one of the most impressive goals scored at Amerant Bank Arena this season, was made even more dramatic by being scored in overtime.

Just 1:36 into overtime on Feb. 20, with the score tied at 2-2 against Ottawa, he received a pass from Tkachuk. He then executed a tight-angle shot from between the circle and redline, beating Joonas Korpisalo and securing the win.

“His epic goal is fitting,” said Ekblad. “He’s earned it. He’s constantly winning puck battles and always makes the correct move. Then he goes on to create a play worthy of ESPN’s Top 10 highlights.”

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

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

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