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Markstrom's Heroics: Panthers Start Season Strong on the Road
8 Oct
Summary
- Goaltender Jacob Markstrom has been stellar in his return to the Panthers.
- The team earned points in four consecutive road games despite injuries.
- Markstrom boasts a .967 save percentage at five-on-five this season.
The Florida Panthers have navigated a turbulent beginning to their 2026-27 season, earning points in four consecutive road games. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom has been a significant factor in their early success, demonstrating consistent performance since his return to the franchise that originally drafted him. Markstrom, in his 18th NHL season, has been particularly strong at five-on-five, allowing only two goals in three appearances and holding a .967 save percentage in those situations.
The Panthers' offense, especially the power play, has shown inconsistency due to various injuries affecting forward line combinations. However, the team ranks highly in offensive zone time, spending 44.1% of their play there. Markstrom's overall save percentage is .967, with a 1.27 goals-against-average, allowing just four goals on 55 shots, effectively filling the void left by Sergei Bobrovsky.
With a three-day break, the Panthers are set for their home opener on October 10th against the Minnesota Wild. The team's defense has also been skating extensively, but they will need a respite. Markstrom, who has rebounded from a difficult 2025 season, will be vital as the Panthers begin a demanding stretch of five games in eight nights starting Saturday.
