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Panthers Looking to Bounce Back Against Detroit |
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The Cats look to bounce back tonight after losing 4-1 to the Red Wings on Sunday afternoon. We always say that any team can be beat on any night, it’s just tough when you’re the team letting the opposition snap their eight-game losing streak against you.
I don’t think there’s too much to say for about last game. The Panthers were simply out-worked many times and they struggled defensively. Credit to Detroit for winning board battles and foot races - they were motivated - but Florida needs to tighten things up in front of their net. Three of the Wings’ goals came from Florida allowing them to come right into the goal mouth untouched and score.
Tonight I would like to see more physicality and tying guys up in front of the crease. Make it difficult for Detroit players trying to setup shop in front of your goalie.
Speaking of goalies...the other thing that helped Detroit was the red-hot play of cat-killer, Thomas Greiss. He turned away 38 of 39 shots, many of which were really good opportunities, to earn the #1 spot in the 3 Stars of the Game. What can you say? The guy has Florida’s number...
According to Jameson Olive, the lines at practice yesterday were as follows:
Verhaeghe - Barkov - Duclair
Huberdeau - Wennberg - Hornqvist
Vatrano - Luostarinen - Tippett
Lomberg - Lammikko - Acciari
Weegar - Ekblad
Nutivaara - Stralman
Yandle - Gudas
Connauton - Juulsen
I’m liking the idea of Lomberg possibly slotting back in for this game. The Cats lacked some energy on Sunday and I think inserting him on that fourth line can help.
I also like the play of Juulsen so far. He seems responsible and can be physical. He moves well out there and barring any more injuries, I can see him being a regular back there.
And, hey! Alex Wennberg, this board’s new Matheson by some commenters, had a beauty of a redirect to score the lone Panthers goal - so that’s exciting.
I know some guys are still down on Duclair because he hasn’t scored, but I’m OK with that. He has been contributing on that first line (arguably the Panthers best) in different ways: speed, leading rushes, generating chances, assists, etc...I think it’s only a matter of time before they start falling for him and Q thinks so too:
"I like the way he's playing. I like how he's skating. That line, night in and night out, they generate a lot for us... He's dangerous off the rush. I told him today, you keep cutting in like that and they'll go in."
I would guess that Bob gets the nod tonight and I’m looking forward to it.
What did you guys think of Marchment’s debut? I didn’t realize he has 130 AHL games under his belt (2016-20) with 72 points (38 G, 34 A). I think he needs a few more games under his belt.
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Back at it to get a new points streak started. Go Panthers!
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