Panthers make 'big' move in goal as 6-9 Black sets...

Match Overview

The Florida Panthers secured a 4-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Thursday night, highlighted by a historic appearance between the pipes. Towering 6-foot-9 goaltender Black earned the win in his league debut, officially becoming the tallest netminder to ever play in an NHL contest.

Florida established control early with two first-period goals, providing Black with immediate offensive cushion. Despite sustained pressure from Ottawa in the final frame, Black turned aside 31 of 33 shots to seal the two points for the hosts.

Key Stats & Facts

• Final Score: Florida Panthers 4-2 Ottawa Senators
• Shots on Goal: Florida 28, Ottawa 33
• Black’s Goaltending Line: 31 saves on 33 shots (.939 SV%), 2 GA, 60:00 TOI
• Special Teams: Florida went 1-for-3 on the power play; Ottawa finished 0-for-2
• High-Danger Chances: Black stopped 11 of 12 high-danger shots at 5-on-5
• Historic Milestone: At 6-foot-9, Black breaks the previous league height record for goaltenders, surpassing Ben Bishop and Mikko Koskinen (both 6-foot-7)

Player Spotlight: Record-Setting Debut

Physical Dominance in the Crease

Black utilized his unprecedented 6-foot-9 frame to eliminate top-shelf angles, frustrating Ottawa’s perimeter shooters throughout the night. His lateral recovery was equally sharp, punctuated by a crucial pad save on a second-period breakaway to preserve Florida’s 2-1 lead.

Poise Under Pressure

The rookie showed little sign of debut nerves during an intense third period where Ottawa outshot Florida 14-7. Black stopped 13 shots in the final frame alone, including three rapid-fire attempts during an Ottawa 6-on-5 sequence with the net empty.

Standings Impact

The regulation victory lifts Florida to 38-18-4 (80 points), keeping the Panthers within two points of top spot in the Atlantic Division. Ottawa remains fifth in the wild-card race at 25-30-3 (53 points), further denting their postseason push.

With the goaltending rotation stretched due to recent injuries, Black’s record-setting and composed performance provides Florida with valuable depth as the playoff race intensifies.