If there is one thing that Panther fans have learned this season, it's that Craig Anderson might just be one of the best backup goalies in the league. And since goaltending is the number one priority for success, the future looks bright.

Panther fans lamenting about the Capitals game isn't as intense as it normally would be. And it's simple. Having a part in ending the Hurricanes season is worth much more to Florida's dwindling fan base than winning the last game. Most fans would have loved to get it to overtime against the Caps and then win it, getting the best of both worlds, but it is what it is. Exorcising the demons in Raleigh may be worth much more next season.

Carolina fans are always quick to jump on Panther fans for complaining about the refs. And after yet another embarrassing officiating display on Friday, it's easy to see why. Most of Florida's penalties were deserved, and some were not. Panther penalty kill units were simply awesome for the last month, and they were at their best that night as well.

Apparently the Panthers were up against a team that played one of the cleanest games in NHL history. Nine power play chances to none. Simply ridiculous. I thought the best chance for the Panthers was Samsonov obviously diving on what was called a "hook" on Kreps. The replay showed Kreps never made contact, but it's a familiar outcome.

Last night during the Caps' broadcast when discussing the lopsided penalty totals, their commentators alluded to the fact that is just what happens in Carolina. Hmmm...conspiracy theory no more! I'm sure Buffalo agrees as well.

Get ready Panther fans, because what is to come is the inevitable "Carolina moves their feet to get penalties," and "we work harder." Well, obviously the most active and hard working unit on the ice was Florida's penalty killers. Thanks guys for giving it your all with nothing to play for.

Sadly, those that cheer for a Florida organization that defines futility can only hang their hat on the fact the Canes are making golf tee times as well. A pathetic state of affairs.

The next few days will be very interesting to see what, if any, changes are made. A season ticket holder meeting is scheduled for Thursday, and I believe owner Alan Cohen will be a participant. I would be shocked if a major change is not made before then.

Some will say Jacques Martin should be retained as GM, but replaced as coach. I think a clean slate is needed. A completely new mindset and direction is the best recipe to get the most out of a talented young nucleus. Players like Nathan Horton and Olli Jokinen need someone to push them to their expected levels of production.

Pivotal days indeed...

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