The two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers look every bit the powerhouse again. Brad Marchand, Aaron Ekblad, and Anton Lundell each finished with a goal and an assist as the Panthers remained unbeaten, cruising past the Ottawa Senators 6-2 on Saturday night at Amerant Bank Arena.
Mackie Samoskevich, Sam Reinhart, and Evan Rodrigues also scored for Florida, while defenseman Seth Jones added two assists. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 26 shots, extending his ironman streak between the pipes as the Panthers improved to 3-0-0 for just the third time in franchise history (joining 2020-21 and 2021-22).
Florida has trailed for only 63 seconds through its first three games — a testament to their control and balance early in the season. The Panthers’ special teams were again a difference-maker, converting three times on the power play to bring their season total to five power-play goals.
“From the first drop of the puck this season, we’ve been sharp and connected,” head coach Paul Maurice said. “Our power play’s been decisive, and our veterans are setting the tone.”
Shane Pinto scored both goals for Ottawa, which fell to 0-6-1 in its last seven trips to Florida. Goalie Linus Ullmark made 21 saves in the loss.
The game also marked the return of Nick Cousins to Sunrise — his first appearance since helping Florida capture its first Stanley Cup in 2024. Now with the Senators, Cousins was welcomed back with a tribute video during the first period and received a warm ovation from Panthers fans.
Bobrovsky, meanwhile, made his 26th consecutive start dating back to last season’s playoffs, tying his personal best streak with the Panthers. If he starts Monday in Philadelphia, he will match Ed Belfour’s franchise record of 27 consecutive starts, set in 2007.
Florida played without defenseman Dmitry Kulikov, who was placed on injured reserve after suffering an injury Thursday. The team has not announced a timetable for his return.
The win sends Florida into a five-game road trip with momentum. Senators: Host the Nashville Predators on Monday in their home opener. Panthers: Visit the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday to open a five-game road swing.
With depth contributions, strong goaltending, and a lethal power play, Florida’s pursuit of a three-peat couldn’t have started much better.
