Florida Panthers Reassign Rookie Goaltender Cooper Black to AHL’s Charlotte Checkers

The Florida Panthers have moved rookie goaltender Cooper Black to the AHL's Charlotte Checkers, per Pro Hockey Rumors. This change follows the return of veteran goaltender Jacob Markström from injured reserve after he recovered from a practice-induced upper-body injury. At just 25 years old, Black made history during his NHL debut on October 22, 2026, against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Standing at an impressive 6-foot-9, he became the tallest goaltender to ever play in an NHL game. Despite securing only one start in the NHL, in which he lost with a 3-2 tally on 21 shots, Black accumulated valuable top-tier experience that will prove beneficial as he continues to grow. Now returning to Charlotte, Black has started three games with the Checkers this season.

He boasts a 2-1-0 record, a .919 save percentage, and a 2.67 goals-against average. Black will join Kirill Gerasimyuk and Tyler Muszelik to form Charlotte's goaltending trio, aiming to make a strong push in the AHL. Jacob Markström's return to form is welcomed by head coach Paul Maurice, although the coach remains focused on Markström's health.

Markström has only played seven games out of Florida's first 15 due to various early-season ailments. In his first return game, Markström stopped 24 of 28 shots as Florida lost 5-3 to the Detroit Red Wings. As Markström gradually builds back to full strength, Akira Schmid will likely take on a more prominent role. Schmid has stabilized the crease during Markström's five-game absence, securing five wins.

With the Panthers dealing with injuries and roster adjustments, the hope is that the blend of Markström's experience and Schmid's solid play will offer the necessary stability as they push through the season.