Florida Panthers OT Win From F Aleksander Barkov Honors Jose Fernandez
Florida Panthers kept it classy on opening night paying tribute to late Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez. He tragically passed away earlier this month in a boating accident in news that shocked the sports world.
The Florida Panthers honored Miami Marlin Jose Fernandez, who passed away last month, in their season opener against the New Jersey Devils. Florida wore their usual jerseys for warm-ups but this time, the name and numbers read the same: Jose Fernandez, 16.
The Panthers had no idea that Aleksander Barkov would make a noteworthy honor to Fernandez in overtime. Barkov, who shares the number 16 with Fernandez, would score the game-winning goal and created emotion for fans and athletes.
The Florida Panthers Foundation Community Champions Grant Foundation also donated $35,000 to Fernandez’s foundation, the JDF16 Foundation.
#JoseDay ❤️ pic.twitter.com/MRKze5gzEg
— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) October 13, 2016
Florida took the ice after the tribute for their first game of the season with their helmets wearing a small sticker with the number 16.
A Quick Look At Regulation
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The quick-paced game warranted only one goal from each team in the first period. Panthers F Jonathan Marchessault scored the first goal at 9:38 and the effort was later matched by recent New Jersey Devils F PA Parenteau.
The next two periods were filled with speedy plays, penalties, and standout performances from both goaltenders.
Equally matched play from both teams would lead into overtime where Fernandez’s memory would seal the game. Barkov would rise to get the overtime win while honoring the Marlin.
Florida Panthers’ Barkov’s OT-Winning Goal and Tribute
Barkov scored the game-winning goal at 2:48 in overtime. Panthers D Michael Matheson sent Barkov a quick pass hence allowing him to take the precise shot.
Everyone quickly noticed that Barkov, No.16, made the winning goal. Therefore, it was only fitting that the Panther who shares a number with Fernandez would find the back of the net for a stunning game-winner.
Fans celebrated what they thought to be a miraculous tribute to Fernandez. Fernandez’s legacy has inspired play before because this isn’t the first time he has inspired such play. A few weeks ago, Miami Marlin Gordon hit a home run while wearing his teammate’s helmet.
Florida and Florida sports fans were touched by the event and voiced their amazement of the goal, including athletes like Gordon.
No. 16 for the win. Amazing, @FlaPanthers!#JDF16
— Miami Marlins (@Marlins) October 14, 2016
The amazing play consequently means a home opening win for Florida. The Panthers will face the Detroit Red Wings tomorrow, Oct.15, for their second game of the season.
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