Sandis Vilmanis shines in NHL debut with Panthers’ 3-2 win
Sandis Vilmanis made his NHL debut with the Florida Panthers on January 11, 2026, after a strong run in the AHL. The 22-year-old forward, drafted in 2022, stepped onto the ice against the Ottawa Senators and helped secure a 3-2 victory. His performance earned praise from both coaches and teammates alike.
Vilmanis was called up from the Charlotte Checkers, where he had been tied for first in scoring with 19 points in 31 games during the 2025-26 season. Over two seasons with the Checkers, he recorded 46 points in 92 games, showing steady improvement each year. His progress caught the attention of the Panthers’ coaching staff, leading to his promotion.
During his debut, Vilmanis logged 11:48 of ice time, contributing one shot on goal and a takeaway. The Panthers held a 4-2 advantage in shots when he was deployed at 5-on-5. His teammates welcomed him warmly, greeting him after every shift and offering encouragement throughout the match. Coach Paul Maurice later noted that Vilmanis had 'earned some fans' in the coaches’ room with his effort. The game ended in a 3-2 win for Florida, marking a successful first outing for the young forward. Beyond his club success, Vilmanis will also represent Latvia at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.
Vilmanis’ debut highlighted his development from a fifth-round draft pick in 2022 to an NHL contributor. His performance against Ottawa demonstrated his readiness for top-level play, while his upcoming Olympic appearance adds to his growing reputation. The Panthers now have another promising talent in their lineup.
