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Forsling scores late as Florida wins season opener against Carolina

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 30, 2026, 12:30 AM

Last updated Sep 30, 2026

Forsling scores late as Florida wins season opener against Carolina

Summary

Gustav Forsling scored with just 4.3 seconds left in overtime to lead the Florida Panthers to a 1-0 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2026-27 NHL season opener. The match was characterized by strong defensive performances and goaltending, with Jacob Markstrom earning a shutout for Florida. Carolina managed only 15 shots on goal, the fewest by a reigning Stanley Cup champion in a season opener since 1955. The game marked the first scoreless battle through regulation in NHL season openers since 1984. Both teams struggled on the power play, with Carolina going 0-for-6 and Florida 0-for-7.

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By the Numbers

•Forsling's goal came from a pass by Carter Verhaeghe.
•Jacob Markstrom made 15 saves for Florida.
•Brandon Bussi stopped 19 shots for Carolina.
•Both teams finished 0-for-7 on power plays.
•The game marked the first overtime opener since 1984.

Latest Updates

12:30 AMYahoo Sports — Forsling's OT blast lifts Florida over Carolina in NHL opener

What they're saying

"
Gustav Forsling blasted a slapshot past goaltender Brandon Bussi with 4.3 seconds remaining in overtime to give Florida a 1-0 victory over Carolina in Tuesday's 2026-27 NHL season opener.The game marked the first contest where two teams battled scoreless through regulation time in their NHL season openers since 1984 when Toronto beat the Minnesota North Stars 1-0 in overtime.
— Yahoo Sports

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