Panthers edge Hurricanes in opener on Gustav Forsling’s late OT goal

Gustav Forsling scored with five seconds remaining in overtime to give the Florida Panthers a 1-0 season-opening victory over the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh, North Carolina. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom earned a shutout in his return to Florida, stopping 15 shots across regulation and overtime. Carter Verhaeghe registered the lone assist on Forsling's game-winning goal, which was Florida's only shot during the extra period.

The game followed a pregame ceremony where the reigning Stanley Cup champion Hurricanes raised their title banner. Both teams struggled on special teams, combining to finish 0-for-13 on the power play. Carolina goaltender Brandon Bussi stopped 19 shots in the loss, while forward Brady Tkachuk recorded one shot on goal in his debut for Florida.