Brady Tkachuk’s excellent pass gave Anton Lundell a chance to score the NHL season’s first goal on Tuesday. Less than five minutes into the Florida Panthers’ opener against the Carolina Hurricanes, Tkachuk created an opportunity that nearly put Florida ahead.
With 15:30 remaining in the first period, Tkachuk battled for the puck along the boards and sent a sharp pass to Lundell as he moved toward the net. Two Canes pressured the Finnish center, leaving him little room to maneuver. Lundell took the shot, but Carolina goaltender Brandon Bussi read the play and made the save.
Let’s not forget: we’re talking about a few seconds under constant pressure.
A good match
The matchup against the reigning Stanley Cup champions marked Lundell’s 360th NHL regular-season appearance. He entered the 2026-2027 campaign with 78 goals and 123 assists for 201 career points.
Last season, he collected 44 points in 64 games before sustaining an upper-body injury. Tuesday gave him a new start after that setback.
Before that, Lundell attracted attention while playing for HIFK in Finland’s Liiga. Florida selected the Espoo native 12th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, bringing him into an organization where he would soon help win championships. Moreover, his strong performance with HIFK earned him a nomination for the Alliance of European Hockey Clubs’ 2021 Young Player of the Year award.
More medals at just 24
Lundell, who turns 25 on October 3, already owns two Stanley Cup rings from the Panthers’ victories in 2024 and 2025. His achievements grew this year when he helped Finland earn Olympic bronze in February and World Championship gold in May.
He contributed directly to Finland’s World Championship victory, producing an assist on Konsta Helenius’ overtime goal against Switzerland. He achieved most of his recent milestones alongside someone he admires and still learns from: Sasha Barkov.
The Panthers captain also won gold with Finland, giving the teammates another championship to celebrate together.
A Florida home and a family connection
Lundell’s year has brought opportunities away from the ice, too. Visit Lauderdale named him its official brand ambassador in January. Through that role, he will help introduce tourists to the city, waterfront restaurants, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions of Greater Fort Lauderdale. Basically, he also landed a modeling gig.
Interestingly, another Lundell joined the Panthers organization this summer. His younger brother, Kasper, signed with Florida’s AHL affiliate, the Charlotte Checkers, adding a family connection as Anton begins his sixth NHL season. So, maybe it's a good time to expect more than 44-45 points from No.15......
The Cats start with a win
Finally, Florida broke through on the opening night when Gustav Forsling scored with less than five seconds remaining in overtime. His goal secured a 1-0 victory in Raleigh and gave the Panthers two points to open their 84-game schedule.
Happy new season, Cats!
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