Edmonton’s power-play quarterback delivered a historic five-point masterclass, while elite netminders posted shutouts and top-tier centers struggled to find their rhythm on a volatile NHL opening night.
The 2026-27 NHL season got underway Tuesday night with a five-game slate that delivered plenty of memorable moments, including the Florida Panthers’ thrilling 1-0 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes courtesy of a Gustav Forsling slap-shot game-winner.
There was also a stunning comeback in Edmonton, where the Vancouver Canucks blew a 5-2 lead before eventually holding on for an overtime victory against the Oilers. Edmonton scored three times late in regulation to force overtime, but Vancouver ultimately completed the upset.
Here are some of the biggest fantasy hockey highs and lows from Tuesday’s opening night.
Evan Bouchard’s Five-Point Night
Edmonton defenseman Evan Bouchard wasted no time making his presence felt, opening the season with a historic five-point performance.
Bouchard recorded a hat trick and added two assists as the Oilers erased a three-goal deficit against Vancouver to force overtime. Despite Edmonton ultimately falling in the extra frame, Bouchard’s offensive explosion made him the top fantasy player after the first night of the season.
Swayman, Markstrom Record Opening-Night Shutouts
While the Canucks and Oilers combined for 11 goals, the opening night also featured a pair of impressive goaltending performances.
The Panthers shut out the defending Stanley Cup champion Hurricanes 1-0, with newcomer Jacob Markstrom stopping all 15 shots he faced to record a shutout in his Florida debut.
Later in the night, Jeremy Swayman matched the feat and then some, turning aside all 24 shots in the Boston Bruins’ 3-0 victory over the New York Rangers.
Quiet Opening Night for Stars in Habs-Leafs Clash
After being selected near the top of most fantasy drafts, elite centers Nick Suzuki and Auston Matthews entered the season with plenty of expectations.
Neither, however, managed to make much of an impact in a physical opening-night matchup between the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs.
Matthews was playing on a revamped top line alongside newcomers Kirill Marchenko and Jack Roslovic, a combination that could take some time to develop chemistry.
Meanwhile, Suzuki and his elite goal-scoring winger, Cole Caufield, were closely watched by a Maple Leafs defense that appeared determined to limit their opportunities.
Neither star managed to provide the type of fantasy production managers were hoping for, but with a full season ahead, one quiet night is hardly cause for concern.
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