Where We Are: Not in a very good position, especially since Tom Renney is finally realizing now how he screwed up. Too little, too late.
Where They Are: Including the Panthers 2-1 win over the Rangers Feb. 13th, they have gone W-L-W-L-W-L. Following that pattern, we're screwed. But, if it is of any help, after beating the Bruins 2-0 on Saturday, the Panthers last game was a 6-1 slaughter at the hands of the B's on Tuesday when big Byron Bitz made them his bitch and got vengeance for the loss with two goals of his own. Tomas Vokoun, who had played nine straight games, actually rode the bench for that one so odds are good he will be in the crease across from Henrik.Who To Watch For: Stephen Weiss regularly does well against the Blueshirts, Nathan Horton is growing into a No. 1 center (finally) and David Booth is a dangerous sniper. But the main guy to watch is Jay Bouwmeester. Bouwmeester is a stud and will trigger a huge bidding war this summer if the Panthers don't re-sign him. There is all sorts of talk about him being dealt at the deadline but I can't imagine Florida will do it, not when they have a playoff spot all but wrapped up.
What To Watch For: Another effort like that in Toronto where some players don't try, some players try hard and others try too hard. Bad habits don't just go away.
What We'll (Hopefully) See: More ice time for Colton Orr, Scott Gomez to manage to not cause a single offside all game long (haha), Wade Redden to keep his scoring streak alive and Markus Naslund to keep the gloves on.
Also Check Out: On Frozen Pond (not the fantastic Caps one, this is a good MSM one by a Miami Herald writer who writes from his heart and loves the game) and Litter Box Cats over at SBN.
Peepin' Foes: Florida Panthers - A Deep Dive into the Opponent
The Florida Panthers, based in Sunrise, Florida, have been a team to watch in the NHL in recent years. With a roster filled with talent and a commitment to winning, they have become a formidable force in the league. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Florida Panthers, their strengths, key players, and answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the team.
Part I: Rising Stars
1. Offensive Prowess:
The Florida Panthers boast one of the most potent offenses in the NHL. Led by the dynamic Aleksander Barkov, Jonathan Huberdeau, and Anthony Duclair, they consistently put up impressive numbers on the scoreboard.
2. Goaltending Excellence:
Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky has rediscovered his elite form in Florida. His strong play between the pipes has been crucial to the team's success.
3. Young Talent:
The Panthers have invested in their youth development program, leading to the emergence of talented prospects like Spencer Knight, who has already made a significant impact in goal.
Part II: Recent Success
1. Playoff Contenders:
The Panthers have established themselves as perennial playoff contenders. Their recent regular-season success has translated into deep postseason runs, making them a team to fear come playoff time.
2. Strong Defensive Play:
Florida has shored up its defense, thanks in part to the addition of veteran blueliners like Anton Stralman and Radko Gudas. This defensive depth has made them a well-rounded team.
Part III: Key Moments
1. Record-Breaking Streak:
The Panthers made headlines with their historic 12-game winning streak during the 2021-2022 season, setting a franchise record and sending a message to the league.
2. Playoff Battles:
Recent playoff series against teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and the New York Islanders have showcased the Panthers' ability to compete at the highest level.
3. Barkov's Leadership:
Captain Aleksander Barkov's leadership both on and off the ice has been instrumental in the Panthers' success. His two-way play and clutch performances make him a cornerstone of the franchise.
Part IV: FAQs About the Panthers
1. Can the Panthers win their first Stanley Cup in franchise history?
With their current roster and strong regular-season showings, the Panthers are certainly in the conversation for a Stanley Cup championship.
2. How has coach Joel Quenneville influenced the team's performance?
Joel Quenneville's coaching experience and winning pedigree have had a positive impact on the Panthers, instilling a winning culture.
3. Who are the breakout stars of the season for the Panthers?
Young players like Owen Tippett and Mason Marchment have had breakout seasons, adding depth to the team's already impressive lineup.
4. What challenges lie ahead for the Panthers in the playoffs?
The playoffs present a new level of competition, and the Panthers will need to continue their strong defensive play while maintaining their offensive firepower.
The Florida Panthers have emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the NHL, combining offensive firepower with strong goaltending and a commitment to success. As they continue their pursuit of a Stanley Cup championship, they have captivated fans with their exciting style of play and deep roster. While challenges undoubtedly await them in the postseason, the Panthers are a team that has the potential to make a significant impact on the league for years to come. Whether they achieve championship glory or not, their presence in the NHL landscape is undeniable, and they are a team worth keeping an eye on as they strive for greatness.
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