Panthers coach credits secret weapon shutting down McDavid for Stanley Cup win

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Liam McCormick
July 9, 2024 (12:10)

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Connor McDavid had one of the highest scoring playoffs in NHL history this year, but when it came down to Game 6 and 7, he was shut down for 0 points.

In a new interview, Panthers assistant coach Jamie Kompon credited their waiver claim and �best kept secret' Gustav Forsling for shutting down McDavid on the biggest stage.

This guy is a machine. You pick him up on waivers, he's a defensive defenceman that's got ability to jump up in the play. He's an unbelievable skater. He's got a great stick. His hockey sense is friggin' elite . . .

We said to him at the end of the last series, �Hey Fors, You were only minus two in chances against McDavid.' He goes, �Minus 2? What do you mean, against McDavid? There's no way, I want a recount. He didn't get the better of me, I got the better of him.'

Forsling was bouncing between the AHL and NHL through the early stages of his career, but when he was claimed off waivers by the Panthers in 2021, his career took off. Now 28 years old, Forsling has proven himself as a high end two-way defenceman, and has earned an 8 year contract for $5.75M just before this year's playoffs. It was an incredible bet for the Panthers to sign Forsling long term just before the playoffs, as his value has skyrocketed after his performance of shutting down McDavid for a Cup win.

Looking at the series as a whole however, McDavid wasn't shut down at all. During the Oilers' incredible effort to come back and win the series, McDavid led the team with 11 points. He was held pointless in the final two games, but he clearly looked like he was playing far below 100% health at that point. If McDavid were healthy, it might've been a different story in a one-goal game 7. Next season the Oilers will be looking to take care of unfinished business.

Source: Cam and Strick Podcast

Panthers assistant coach speaks on Forsling