Florida Panthers forward Evan Rodrigues required further evaluation after leaving Game 4 following a collision with Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson. The incident occurred five minutes into the third period, resulting in Rodrigues heading to the locker room and not returning.
Initially, officials assessed a five-minute major penalty for the hit, which took place in front of the benches. However, upon review, this was reduced to a minor penalty for interference.
Panthers head coach Paul Maurice indicated post-game that the forward would need additional medical assessment before his status could be updated.
Rodrigues has contributed 3 assists in 9 playoff games for the Panthers this season. Last season, he recorded 15 points during the team`s run to the Stanley Cup Final.
The Panthers did not capitalize on the power play resulting from the penalty. However, they ultimately secured a victory, evening the series against the Maple Leafs at 2-2 after dropping the initial two road games.
Notably, the 31-year-old forward had previously drawn attention in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals when he was assessed a penalty for embellishment after being hit along the boards in a separate incident.
