Storhamar Hockey defeated Stavanger 3-2 in overtime during the first game of the Norwegian Elite Hockey League semifinals on Wednesday, March 19, 2026, at CC Amfi in Hamar, Norway. The victory came at a cost, however, as forward Austin Cangelosi sustained an injury during the contest.
The game was closely contested, requiring an extra period to determine a winner. Storhamar, coached by Petter Thoresen, ultimately prevailed, taking a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. Details of the game-winning goal were not immediately available.
Austin Cangelosi, a 31-year-old American forward, has been a key player for Storhamar since joining the team. He signed a two-year contract with the club, returning to the Elite Hockey League after previous stints with Lillehammer and Stjernen. Prior to returning to Norway, Cangelosi played for CBR Brave in Australia. Over five seasons in the EHL, Cangelosi has amassed 264 points in 217 games.
Coach Thoresen had specifically sought to acquire Cangelosi, recognizing his offensive capabilities and familiarity with Norwegian hockey. Thoresen highlighted Cangelosi’s speed on skates, strong puck-handling skills, and ability to both score and create scoring opportunities for teammates. Cangelosi himself expressed his enthusiasm for playing for Storhamar, particularly enjoying the support of the home crowd.
“I glance forward to playing for Storhamar in the coming years. I am really looking forward to playing with the fantastic audience here supporting me, rather than against me!” Cangelosi said upon signing with the team. He also noted his familiarity with several Storhamar players, including Trym Gran, Andreas Martinsen, and Sverre Rønningen, and expressed a desire to play alongside Patrick Thoresen.
The nature and severity of Cangelosi’s injury were not disclosed in immediate reports following the game. No further information regarding his condition or potential impact on the remainder of the series was available at the time of publication.
The next game between Storhamar and Stavanger is scheduled to take place on March 21, 2026, in Stavanger.
Leave a Reply