NHL Playoffs: Bruins edge Panthers in Game 5, avoid elimination

1 of 3 | Veteran forward David Pastrnak was among the Boston Bruins’ top shot-takers in a win over the Florida Panthers on Tuesday in Sunrise, Fla, File Photo by Archie Carpenter/UPI | License Photo

SUNRISE, Fla., May 14 (UPI) — Boston Bruins defenders absorbed assaults while a resuscitated attack unleashed a puck cascade on the Florida Panthers for a Game 5 win Tuesday, extending the Eastern Conference semifinal series.

The Bruins, who now trail 3-2 in the best-of-seven game series, staved off playoff elimination with the 2-1 triumph at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Fla. With the win, they send the series back to Boston, with Game 6 set for Friday at TD Garden.

The Bruins, who were held to 50 shots on goal through the first four games of series, fired 28 pucks on net in Game 5. Forward Morgan Geekie and defenseman Charlie McAvoy supplied the goals.

“I’ve been trying to keep the same mindset,” said McAvoy, who entered the game without a shot on goal in t