Gustav Forsling is a Swedish professional ice hockey defenseman for the Florida Panthers in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Born on June 12, 1996, in Linköping, Sweden, he stands 6’0″ or 6’1″ and weighs around 190-200 pounds.
Forsling was selected in the fifth round (126th overall) by the Vancouver Canucks in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
His rights were later traded to the Chicago Blackhawks, and he has become a key shutdown defenseman known for his skating, defensive reliability, and ability to contribute offensively.
He has developed into one of the Panthers’ most consistent blue-liners after being claimed off waivers.
Siblings
Gustav grew up in a hockey-oriented family in Linköping, Sweden, with two brothers.
He has an older brother named Hampus Forsling, a forward who played hockey professionally before retiring.
His younger brother, Hannes Forsling, also pursued hockey as a player.
Also Read: Alex DeBrincat Siblings: Get to Know Andrew DeBrincat
Career
Forsling made his senior debut in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) with Linköpings HC during the 2014-15 season.
After his draft rights moved to Chicago, he signed with the Blackhawks and made his NHL debut in the 2016-17 season, scoring his first goal that year.
He spent time shuttling between the NHL and the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs before being traded to the Carolina Hurricanes in 2019.
In January 2021, the Panthers claimed him off waivers, marking a turning point.
Forsling quickly established himself as a top-pair defenseman in Florida, excelling in even-strength play and contributing steady points.
He signed a three-year extension in 2021 and then an eight-year, $46 million contract in March 2024.
His tenure with the Panthers has included strong playoff performances, helping anchor a championship defense.
He has represented Sweden internationally at junior and senior levels, including the World Juniors and more recently the Olympics.
Accolades
Forsling won back-to-back Stanley Cup championships with the Florida Panthers in 2024 and 2025, playing a vital role in both Finals victories over the Edmonton Oilers.
In 2024, he was named Sweden’s Player of the Year, earning the Guldpucken award.
He has received Norris Trophy votes for his elite defensive play and has been a consistent leader in advanced metrics for the Panthers.
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