Panthers earn division title

In clinching the first division title in franchise history on Saturday night, the Florida Panthers closed the book on the NHL’S Eastern Conference playoff race.

The Panthers defeated the Carolina Hurricanes, 4-1, securing the Southeast Division crown and the No. 3 postseason seed. They will meet the No. 6 New Jersey Devils in Round 1.

It’ll be a reunion of sorts for several parties in both franchises. Florida centre John Madden, who scored Saturday vs. the Hurricanes, began his career in New Jersey and won two Stanley Cup titles there. And Panthers goaltender Scott Clemmensen was once a back up to new jersey’s martin Brodeur.

On the other side, Devils coach Peter Deboer held the same title with Florida just last season.