Spencer Knight delivered a stellar performance on Saturday, stopping all 20 shots he faced as the Florida Panthers routed the Carolina Hurricanes 6-0 to complete a two-game sweep. The win marked Knight’s fourth career shutout and his first since Nov. 9, 2022—also against Carolina.
Florida’s offense came alive with six different goal scorers. Mackie Samoskevich delivered a key blow with a buzzer-beater at the end of the second period, giving the Panthers a 2-0 lead. The floodgates opened in the third, with Aleksander Barkov, Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, Evan Rodrigues, and Adam Boqvist each finding the back of the net. The Panthers have now won three straight games, following a rough stretch where they dropped six of seven.
Samoskevich’s goal carried special significance, as it capped off a memorable day for the young winger—his alma mater, Michigan, defeated Ohio State in college football just before puck drop. Florida remains undefeated at 5-0-0 when Samoskevich scores this season.
Knight’s shutout showcased his ability to rise in big moments. “It felt great to get the win, but more importantly, we’re playing as a team again,” Knight said postgame. His composure between the pipes was crucial, especially as Florida tightened up defensively, allowing just 20 shots.
Carolina’s Spencer Martin made 23 saves on 28 shots before being pulled in the third period. Yaniv Perets replaced him with 8:12 remaining, making his second NHL appearance. The Hurricanes, who have dropped four of their last six games, failed to earn a point for the first time all season following a loss.
Carolina’s offense, typically a strength, was stymied. Entering Saturday, they were 4-0-1 after a defeat, but the Panthers neutralized their attack effectively. The Hurricanes now look to regroup as they return home for a two-game stretch.
The game turned decisively when Florida scored two goals just 11 seconds apart early in the third, pushing the lead to 5-0 and prompting Carolina’s goalie change. Ekblad’s goal snapped a lengthy drought—his first in 1,045 regular-season shifts dating back to Feb. 20.
The Panthers (13-9-1) hit the road for a two-game trip starting Tuesday in Pittsburgh, while the Hurricanes (12-8-3) begin a two-game homestand on Tuesday against the Seattle Kraken.
Florida seems to have found its rhythm again, with contributions from every line and stellar goaltending. Meanwhile, Carolina will need to address their recent inconsistency as they look to bounce back.
