The Florida Panthers have officially announced their roster for the upcoming rookie camp and showcase in Nashville, and among the 29 players vying for a spot, defenseman Mikulas Hovorka stands out as a top prospect.
At 6-foot-6, the 23-year-old Hovorka is considered one of the few players with a realistic chance of making the Panthers’ roster out of training camp. However, it is expected that Hovorka will likely begin his North American professional career with the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers for several reasons.
For one, the Panthers boast a strong depth of veteran defensemen. Additionally, Hovorka can be assigned to the minors without needing to clear waivers, making it easier for the team to develop him gradually. Florida also prefers to give him time to adjust to the North American game and ensure he’s not rushed into NHL action.
Despite being a rookie in the NHL, Hovorka brings two seasons of professional experience from the Czech Extraliga, where the Panthers previously discovered standout defenseman Uvis Balinskis. Balinskis made the Panthers’ roster out of last year’s camp, splitting time between Charlotte and Florida before securing a role as one of the team’s top seven defensemen heading into this season.
Florida’s coaching staff, particularly Charlotte Checkers head coach Geordie Kinnear, have been impressed with Hovorka’s work ethic and physicality. “His passion to practice and play is infectious,” said Kinnear. “The coaches gravitated to him because of his willingness to learn and his physical presence. We think he’s ready to take a big step, but we know it’s a process. He’s clearly enjoying the journey.”
Since signing with the Panthers earlier this year, Hovorka has embraced the opportunity, even flying to South Florida during the playoffs to meet the team’s medical staff while nursing a high ankle sprain. That trip also gave him a chance to watch a Panthers playoff game and spend time with future teammates, including Matthew Tkachuk, ahead of training camp, which opens on September 19.
Having been a Panthers fan since age 15, Hovorka is thrilled to have signed with the team. “It’s amazing they gave me this opportunity,”
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