Newly re-signed forward Gustav Forsling paints bright picture for Florida Panthers

The newly re-signed defenseman is excited as to what the future holds in Florida.

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Published 2 years ago
Newly re-signed forward Gustav Forsling paints bright picture for Florida Panthers
NHL.com

Defenseman Gustav Forsling has put pen to paper with the Florida Panthers, agreeing to a three-year extension that will keep him on the prowl through the 2023-24 NHL Season. 

Originally drafted by the Vancouver Canucks, his rights were traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in a 2015 trade. He'd remain in the Windy City until 2019 when he was dealt to the Carolina Hurricanes; however, his fortunes would change when he was waived prior to the start of last season and subsequently picked up by the Florida Panthers. 

Needless to say, he's used to things changing. 

"It's weird how quick it can turn out to be," Forsling said during a Zoom teleconference from his native Sweden on Tuesday. "You've just got to stay focused and stay ready. When you get the chance, you've got to be ready for it. Everything can happen very quick, especially in hockey."

As for settling with the Florida Panthers, he's excited for the opportunity. 

"It feels really good to have three more years, especially with the Panthers," said Forsling, who was originally selected by the Canucks in the fifth round (126th overall) of the 2014 NHL Draft. "It's great to know where you're going to be for the next three years."

"After joining the Panthers in January, Gustav had a career season setting personal records and establishing his defensive game to bolster our blueline," Panthers general manager Bill Zito said. "We are looking forward to watching him continue to develop his game with our club."

"I just loved it," Forsling said. "To know that you're going to play against the best players in the world every night on the top, top, top pairing, that was really exciting. I just really enjoyed it."

"We have something really good going on," Forsling said of the Panthers. "I think a lot of guys are going to stay. I feel like we're almost the same group of guys. It looks very bright for us. Everyone feels we almost had Tampa this playoffs. Everyone wants the season to start."

And with a bright picture like that, you can bet that he's itching to get going once again. 

"I felt like I ended on a great note," Forsling said. "You just want to get back to playing."

Source: NHL.com