Panthers Call Up Young Goalie Spencer Knight for Added Depth!
In a move aimed at fortifying their goaltending depth, the Panthers have recalled Spencer Knight from AHL Charlotte, as noted in the AHL’s transactions log.
Knight’s stint in the minor league concluded recently after Charlotte’s loss in the best-of-three Atlantic Division first-round series against Hartford in this year’s Calder Cup Playoffs. This marks his first recall of the season, though he’s not expected to see playing time unless both Sergei Bobrovsky and Anthony Stolarz are sidelined with injuries for the remainder of Florida’s playoff campaign.
The 23-year-old hasn’t seen NHL action since February 18, 2023. Following this, he entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program to seek treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder, which he revealed had been untreated since his collegiate days at Boston College in 2019.
Due to his extended absence, the Panthers assigned the waiver-exempt Knight to Charlotte at the onset of the season. Despite initial doubts about the permanency of this assignment given his talent and contract extension, Stolarz’s stellar performance in the backup role cemented his position on the roster. Stolarz boasted impressive stats, ranking first in the NHL with a .925 SV% and 2.03 GAA.
Meanwhile, Knight excelled as Charlotte’s starting goalie throughout the season, showing improvement after a challenging start. He wrapped up the season with a .905 SV% and 2.41 GAA, recording 25 wins, 14 losses, and 5 ties in 45 games. Notably, he tallied five shutouts and posted a .921 SV% in his last 10 games.
Knight’s outstanding performance earned him this year’s Fred T. Hunt Memorial Award, recognizing his sportsmanship, determination, and dedication to hockey, as voted by AHL coaches, players, and media.
Looking ahead, with Stolarz set to become an unrestricted free agent in the summer, Knight could potentially return to Florida’s roster next season as Bobrovsky’s backup, given his strong finish and remaining two seasons on his contract. He will be a restricted free agent upon contract expiry in 2026, making his future with the Panthers an intriguing storyline to watch.
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