Matthew Tkachuk throws a spinning back elbow during game 3

Even though it is just twenty minutes into the Stanley Cup final, game three has already lived up to expectations. The Oilers had to start strong, and they have; despite behind 1-0, they have been playing at a high level. With just over a minute remaining, though, there was a moment centered around Matthew Tkachuk of the Florida Panthers that might set off fireworks in the future, so as the game goes on, everyone should keep a watch on it.

Visibly agitated, Tkachuk skated over to Oilers Derek Ryan during a scrum behind Panthers Sergei Bobrovsky, and then he gave him what can only be described as a spinning back elbow to the head. He was sent straight to the penalty area.

Tkachuk would be wise to avoid the penalty area if the Panthers want to win game three. Tkachuk is the kind of player who can add a lot of useful elements to a game, but if he sits for two minutes or longer for lashing out and being irrational, neither the Panthers nor his teammates will benefit from him.

The Panthers' objective is to defeat the Oilers on Thursday night by utilizing their ability to play smart but physical, even though the play won't be a make-or-break situation.

Source: Blade of Steel
Florida Panthers Matthew Tkachuk sent to box for spinning back elbow