Aaron Ekblad's impactful return from injury propelled the Florida Panthers to a commanding 7-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks. Ekblad contributed with a goal and an assist, leading a robust team performance that saw Matthew Tkachuk shine with a goal and two assists. With contributions from Nate Schmidt, Sam Bennett, A.J. Greer, Jesper Boqvist, and Sam Reinhart, the Panthers outscored the Sharks 4-0 in the second period alone. Despite the Sharks' goals from Cody Ceci and Will Smith, they suffered their sixth consecutive defeat and tenth in eleven games, continuing their struggle defensively as they allowed at least five goals in three straight games.