The Florida Panthers are dealing with a significant blow as another experienced top star and fan favorite has suffered a potentially career-threatening injury just before the start of the new season. Head coach Paul Maurice now faces a major challenge as his team heads into the final days of training camp.
As the Panthers’ training camp roster dwindled, the team was split into two groups Tuesday morning. One group appears to consist of players who are expected to start the season against the Boston Bruins next week, while the other includes players likely bound for the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers. Maurice emphasized the importance of focusing on getting his key players ready for the season, stating, “It’s training camp, not a tryout camp. The driving force is to get your best players up to speed.”
The Panthers’ main group included seven defensemen, with Uvis Balinskis securing a roster spot. Meanwhile, forward A.J. Greer was promoted to the second line, replacing Evan Rodrigues, who left Monday’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning with an injury. Maurice assured fans that Rodrigues is expected to be back for the preseason finale.
Rookie Mackie Samoskevich, who missed much of training camp with an undisclosed injury, returned to practice in a no-contact jersey and worked on the third line. While he won’t play in the upcoming game, Maurice is hopeful he will be ready for the weekend’s matchup.
Florida also saw Tomas Nosek, their first 2024 free agency signing, go down with an injury early in the preseason. His return date remains uncertain, but his absence has given other players, like rookie Patrick Giles and veteran Jesper Boqvist, a chance to step up. Boqvist, signed from New Jersey, may take on a bigger role if injuries persist into the regular season.
With only days remaining in camp, Maurice hinted at a substantial roster cut following Wednesday’s game, leaving 39 players competing for final spots on the Opening Night roster. The Panthers’ coaching staff will continue to monitor injuries closely, with hopes of minimizing further setbacks as the season approaches.
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