The NHL Global Series in Helsinki provided a fitting stage for Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov to showcase his skills in his hometown, as he led the Panthers to a thrilling 6-4 victory over the Dallas Stars. Barkov’s return was electrifying, with the Finnish star contributing a goal and three assists, marking a memorable performance in front of an appreciative Finnish crowd. Barkov became just the sixth European player to score in his hometown during a regular-season game outside North America, joining the ranks of Patrik Laine, Tomas Hertl, Niklas Kronwall, Fredrik Claesson, and Johnny Oduya.
The game was a celebration of Finnish talent, with all seven Finnish players across both rosters taking the ice for the opening face-off. Barkov’s four-point game was complemented by strong showings from teammates Anton Lundell, who added a goal, and Niko Mikkola, who registered an assist. On the Dallas side, Finnish defenseman Esa Lindell contributed a goal and an assist, as Finnish fans were treated to a spectacular display from their homegrown stars.
Aaron Ekblad anchored the Panthers‘ defense, providing three assists and adding to his reputation as a dynamic playmaker on the blue line. The Panthers’ depth also shone through, with Sam Reinhart, Evan Rodrigues, and rookie Mackie Samoskevich each scoring. Reinhart, in particular, was outstanding; his two-goal night featured his third short-handed goal of the season, a remarkable stat considering 11 other NHL teams have yet to score one short-handed goal this season. His versatility in both special teams play and even strength has made him one of the league’s most potent offensive threats, currently leading with 29 power-play goals and eight short-handed goals since the start of last season.
Rodrigues set the tone early for Florida, netting the game’s opening goal just 28 seconds in. The Panthers’ offensive depth proved challenging for the Dallas defense, which struggled to contain Florida’s relentless attack, conceding six goals, tying an NHL record for the most goals allowed in a game held outside North America.
Despite the loss, the Stars had notable performances of their own. Tyler Seguin, Mavrik Bourque, and Jamie Benn each scored, with Matt Duchene and Ilya Lyubushkin adding two assists apiece. Jake Oettinger, however, had a challenging night in net, stopping just 22 of 28 shots as the Stars’ defense failed to find its footing against Florida’s varied offensive looks.
Sergei Bobrovsky backstopped the Panthers’ victory with a commendable 32-save performance. His timely saves throughout the game preserved Florida’s lead as the Stars fought back in a high-scoring affair.
This game was more than just another regular-season match for Barkov, whose triumphant return to Helsinki and role in a historic victory for the Panthers made the night unforgettable. The Panthers extended their winning streak to four games and showcased their international appeal, delivering a show in Finland that highlighted the global reach and excitement of the NHL.
