The Unlikely Connection: A St. Louis Influence on the Florida Panthers trip to the Stanley Cup Finals

Two players with ties to St. Louis played a key part in the Florida Panthers victory over the New York Rangers in game six of the Eastern Conference Finals.

St. Louis Native: Matthew Tkachuk

Tkachuk, known for his rugged play, recorded an assist in the Florida Panthers first goal on Friday night.

Tkachuk made a beautiful pass to Sam Bennett, who scored the Panthers first goal in their game six victory against the New York Rangers.

The goal, arguably, boosted the Panthers momentum as it energized the sell-out crowd in Sunrise, Florida.

In game six, Tkachuk, a prodigy hailing from St. Louis, was not the only individual with ties to the city who made a significant appearance.

Former St. Louis Blues star: Vladimir Tarasenko

Former St. Louis Blues star Vladimir Tarasenko scored the second and final Florida goal of the night, all but sealing the Panthers victory and carrying them to the Stanley Cup Finals.

The Panthers, who were defeated by the Vegas Golden Knights in last year's finals, aim to secure their first-ever franchise Cup victory.

Tarasenko, who was specifically brought to Florida for postseason play, was added to the team as a late addition at the trade deadline, having been acquired from Ottawa.

Even though Tarasenko may not possess the same attributes as he did in his early years in St. Louis, he continues to serve as a veteran leader and skilled player who is determined to score.

For now, the Panthers will wait and see who comes out victorious between the Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars.

It's certain that many St. Louis Blues fans will openly support the Florida Panthers, given Tkachuk's and Tarasenko's presence on the team.