Geekie & Harkins Score, But Lightning Fall 5-3 to Panthers | Daily Strike - September 25, 2026

The Tampa Bay Lightning battled back multiple times but ultimately fell 5-3 to the Florida Panthers in their third preseason game. On today's Daily Strike, Steve Versnick breaks down the night's biggest storylines, including another strong performance from Conor Geekie and a two-goal effort from Jansen Harkins.

After falling behind 2-0, Tampa Bay rallied with goals from Geekie and Harkins to get back into the game. Harkins added his second goal of the night in the third period, but Florida responded immediately and later sealed the victory with an empty-net goal.

Hear reaction from Head Coach Jon Cooper on several newcomers finding the scoresheet this preseason, while Jansen Harkins discusses making the most of his opportunities as roster decisions draw closer.

Also in today's episode:

• Full recap of the Lightning's 5-3 loss to Florida
• Conor Geekie's second goal of the preseason
• Jansen Harkins' two-goal performance
• Jon Cooper's thoughts on the team's new additions
• The latest on the preseason roster competition
• Jonas Johansson clears waivers
• Preview of Saturday's preseason rematch against the Panthers in Sunrise
• This Day in Lightning History: Kevin Shattenkirk's Stanley Cup Final overtime winner in 2020
• Countdown to Opening Night and Lightning Launch Week

The Lightning are now 1-1-1 in the preseason as they prepare for their final exhibition game before roster cuts intensify ahead of the regular season opener in New York.

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