Live look at Bill Zito assembling the guys to the Panthers IceDen for training camp:
via GIPHY
The Cats roll out a robust
56-man roster for their 2022-23 training camp. This is a good mix consisting of established Panthers, new signings, and young guns looking to make an impression.
I see Kiersted will be rocking #3. Big skates to fill with beloved fan favorite Paul Laus having previously worn the magic number for his entire nine-year career (all with Florida). Interesting fact about Laus, he is the only player to play in the first eight seasons of Florida’s existence in the league. Hopefully the ghost of his rugged style of play and solid defense will rub off on the young Kiersted…
From an established NHLer perspective, it will be interesting to see how these new signings and PTO candidates shake out in camp. Who will make it and who won’t?
From the young guys group, I’m curious to see if Denisenko takes the next step. He has a great opportunity here to compete, edge someone out, and work his way into the lineup after this off season’s exits.
Do they let Knight marinate longer in the AHL and roll with Bob and a journeyman like J.F. Berube? I wouldn’t mind it. If the team is playing better overall defense and the byproduct of that is less rubber flying towards the Florida cage, why not let Bob take he majority of starts and have Berube back him up while Knight gets some more seasoning?
Lastly - and most importantly - I’m eager to see how new head coach Paul Maurice structures the lineup and what new style of play he’ll inject into this squad. There’s certainly a lot of detractors, out there, so I’m sure Maurice knows he has to come out swinging with this team.
Any takers on a Tkachuk vs Lomberg scuffle at some point? Haha.
Below is the opening weekend schedule:
Thursday, Sept. 22
Group A on Ice 9 AM | Panthers IceDen
Group B on Ice 12 PM | Panthers IceDen
Friday, Sept. 23
Group B on Ice 9 AM | Panthers IceDen
Group A on Ice 12 PM | Panthers IceDen
Saturday, Sept. 24
Group A on Ice 9 AM | Panthers IceDen
Group B on Ice 12 PM | Panthers IceDen
Sunday, Sept. 25
Group B on Ice 9 AM | Panthers IceDen
Group A on Ice 12 PM | Panthers IceDen
Monday, Sept. 26: Preseason
Game FLA at NSH - 4:00 PM ET | Bridgestone Arena
FLA at NSH - 8:00 PM ET | Bridgestone Arena
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I’ll be looking forward to Jameson Olive’s camp updates. If anyone is planning on going to check out any of the days, please chime in and let us know how things are looking!
One step closer…Go Panthers!