Panthers Secure Six Points Behind Markstrom and Strong Defense

The Florida Panthers opened the 2026-27 NHL season with a four-game point streak after earning six of eight possible points on a road trip, led by Jacob Markstrom's goaltending and a strong five on five defensive performance, according to NHL.com.

Florida went 2-0-2 during the trip and ranked first in the Atlantic Division as of Thursday. The Panthers allowed only two five on five goals over 170:48, while Markstrom posted a .927 save percentage with a 2-0-1 record through his first three appearances.

Markstrom's return to the Panthers included a season-opening 1-0 overtime win over the Carolina Hurricanes, where he stopped 15 shots. He later allowed four goals on 55 shots through three starts, according to The Hockey News.

"I thought we played a great game," said Jacob Markstrom after the win over Carolina.

Markstrom credited the team's lineup after his first start back with Florida. The Panthers had all four lines and six defensemen contribute during the victory.

"Everyone, the whole lineup; all four lines, all six D played really good and made my job a lot easier. … This was great, we played a great game. Good win, good two points," said Jacob Markstrom.

Markstrom continued his strong form as Florida prepared for later games against Minnesota and Buffalo. CBS Sports reported he entered the Buffalo matchup with a 2-1-1 record after stopping 76 of 83 shots.

"Marky was amazing to keep it 1-1 for so long," said Matthew Tkachuk.

Tkachuk scored the late goal in Florida's 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Kings, which completed the road trip. He also highlighted the value of collecting points in difficult games.

"If you would have told me going into the trip that we’d take six of eight [points], I would’ve signed on the dotted line," said Matthew Tkachuk.

The forward also described the team's final road game after the Panthers closed the trip with a narrow victory.

"We had 2-1 filth tonight to finish off the road trip," said Matthew Tkachuk.

Defenseman Seth Jones praised Markstrom's impact after the veteran goaltender's return. Jones also noted Florida's even strength performance and the need to improve other areas.

"He’s been unbelievable," said Seth Jones.

Jones added that Markstrom had quickly built chemistry with the team and provided key saves.

"A great goaltender and great person off the ice, blended with us chemistry-wise away from the rink perfectly in the locker room. We want to play in front of him. He’s been special to start this season, a lot of big saves and some breakaways as well. He’s been a rock back there," said Seth Jones.

Jones said the road results reflected Florida's overall effort against strong opponents.

"Six out of eight (points) is a great road trip," said Seth Jones.

He also explained that several games were closely contested and that special teams remained an area for improvement.

"All tight games, could have easily gone 4-0, and we played some pretty good teams. I think we did a lot of good things, not a lot of 5-on-5 chances or goals that we gave up. If we clean up the special teams a bit moving forward, we’ll be in pretty good shape," said Seth Jones.

Coach Paul Maurice highlighted Markstrom's saves and Florida's five on five play after the opening stretch.

"Oh, has he been good," said Paul Maurice.

Maurice said Florida's road performance showed strong commitment despite areas requiring adjustment.

"It’s been a really good trip," said Paul Maurice.

Florida's next stretch included continued road travel, with only three of the team's next nine games scheduled in Sunrise, according to The Hockey News.

"It’s fun, you’re in every game and there’s a chance to win," said Jacob Markstrom.

Markstrom's early season form became a central factor in Florida's strong start, while the Panthers also led the NHL with 144 hits and ranked among the league leaders in five on five shot attempts, according to NHL.com.