On Frozen Pond

Florida Panthers Brian Campbell Back With Old Blackhawks on Team Chara, Taken 11th at NHL All Star Draft ... Bruins Tim Thomas Speaks. A Little

BY GEORGE RICHARDS

GATINEAU, Quebec – For the second straight year, the NHL split up its All-Star roster not by Eastern and Western conferences, but by picking two captains and allowing them to choose the guys they want to play with on Sunday.

Like an old schoolyard draft -- be it hockey, football or kickball – no one wanted to be the last man standing.

Last year in Raleigh, it was Toronto's Phil Kessel who was the final selection. He picked up a new Honda and a $20,000 donation to charity as a consolation prize.

Thursday night, San Jose's Logan Couture ended up being the final pick of the NHL All-Star Draft; a new car was also waiting for him. A $20,000 donation to youth hockey from the NHL and NHLPA will also be made in Couture's name.

“I knew it could happen with this lineup and these players,'' Couture said. “It's just awesome to be here and my phone is blowing up with people wondering what I'm going to do with the car.''

Boston captain Zdeno Chara, who started his NHL career with the Senators, had the first pick of the draft – he already had Toronto's Joffrey Lupul on his team as an assistant captain – and went with Detroit's Pavel Datsyuk.

Ottawa captain Daniel Alfredsson selected teammate Erik Karlsson with his first pick. Chara took teammate Tim Thomas with his second pick and let Lupul take Kessel with the eighth.

“I admire the way he plays,'' Chara said of Datsyuk.

Defenseman Brian Campbell is the only member of the Panthers represented at the Ottawa All-Star Weekend and he went in the 11th round to Team Chara.

Campbell will be reunited with former Blackhawks teammates Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane.

"I like this team,'' Campbell said.

Campbell is making his fourth appearance in the All-Star Game although this was his first experience with a 'pick-me' draft since his much younger days.

“This was fun,'' he said. “It brought you back to the backyard rink kind of thing. It was cool.''

Campbell, who grew up about seven hours away from Ottawa in Strathroy, Ontario, got his real start here by playing for the Ottawa 67s of the Ontario junior Hockey League.

Campbell got a loud cheer as he was obviously remembered for leading the 67s to a Memorial Cup in 1999 when he was league MVP. He has a large group of family with him this weekend and will be dropping the ceremonial puck at the 67s game against the Sarnia Sting on Friday night.

Although many of his teammates are having fun in the sun during this extended break, Campbell says there's “plenty of time for the beach.''

“I love it here, I played junior here,'' Campbell said. “This is something that in 10, 15 years I can look back and say I played on so-many All-Star games. I know the boys are having fun wherever they are, but I'm having fun right here.''

() Thomas, last year's playoff MVP, didn't elaborate on his recent White House snub after he was selected, although he said he “followed his [conscience]'' by not joining his teammates to celebrate their Stanley Cup championship.

Thomas put out a statement afterward writing “this was not about politics or party, as in my opinion both parties are responsible for the situation we are in as a country. This was about a choice I had to make as an individual.''

He added that was all he would speak on the subject. He stuck to that Thursday although one wise guy in the crowd yelled ''yeah Obama!'

“We're here in Ottawa to celebrate hockey,'' Thomas said after pulling on his new blue All-Star jersey. “I'm extremely excited about that.''

Florida Panthers Take Off for All-Star Break ... Lots of Work to Do. Next Week.

Just a reminder that I'm off to Ottawa tomorrow for the All-Star Weekend.

Going to have updates throughout the weekend here on this site, although if you want up-to-the-minute stuff, you're best bet is following me on Twitter. 

I'm going to be linking to some of the biggest media names at the All-Star Game so you'll have the best coverage around.

Again, it's free and easy to do. 

Just follow me here @OnFrozenPond

Here's my story on the Panthers and their All-Star Break plans and what's up next for them:

BY GEORGE RICHARDS

The Panthers have had few days off since training camp started back in September.

Now they get a real break.

The All-Star Weekend, which takes place in Ottawa this year, gives the Panthers almost a week away from the game. Aside from defenseman Brian Campbell, the Panthers won't be lacing up the skates until Monday's afternoon practice in Coral Springs. 

“We have a five day break and that's a really good time to just step away,'' coach Kevin Dineen said. “This gives you a chance to relax mentally. It's like anything else; when you recharge the batteries both mentally and physically, it's a good place to be.''

Campbell left town for Ottawa on Wednesday night although he is one of the rare few headed north.

Rookie defenseman Erik Gudbranson is heading to his hometown of Ottawa as well. Most other teammates plan on going as far north as Disney World.

A big portion of the Panthers will remain in South Florida, either in Fort Lauderdale or driving to the Keys. 

One of the benefits of playing in Florida is not having to travel during hockey's version of spring break. 

“The options here in Fort Lauderdale, South Florida, are quality ones for things you want to do. One good one is just stay home,'' Dineen said. “We want them to get away from the game, be well rested.''

And Dineen's plan?

“I am going to see the Intracoastal waterway for the first time since I've been here,” he said with a grin. “I have some great friends coming down from Maine and Ohio. We're getting a boat and go for a little cruise from Boca to Fort Lauderdale then sneak down to the Keys. It's a rough life. You have to take advantage of being in South Florida.''

When the Panthers come back, however, it's time to get down to serious business.

Florida goes into the break tied with the Capitals with 55 points after losing 11 of its past 15 games. Since the Capitals have more wins, they win the tiebreaker putting the Panthers in seventh place in the Eastern Conference. 

“We're in good shape right now,'' goalie Scott Clemmensen said. “We earned our keep and are in the driver's seat instead of past years where we were so far behind the 8-ball that we dug ourselves into a hole we couldn't get out of. We've earned the right to be where we are, in a position to make a big playoff push. And we completely expect to make the playoffs. Without a doubt.''

The Panthers will hold two practices before Washington comes to town, the first of four divisional opponents the Panthers face coming out of the break. With the points so close, the games are becoming more important by the day. 

“We know we're going to have a really tough schedule as we move forward,'' Dineen said. “When we hit the ice on Monday, we're going to have two crisp practices and we're going to jump right into the heat of it. We're playing a lot of divisional opponents. This is going to be a key part of the schedule for us.''

() The Panthers got a little experience on their blue line after recalling Tyson Strachan to replace the injured Dmitry Kulikov. Strachan has spent parts of the past three seasons with the Blues but didn't see much playing time in Tuesday's 3-2 shootout loss to the Flyers. 

Strachan played a total of 18 shifts and only three in the third period. Strachan didn't see the ice in the overtime session. 

“I'm excited that the day is here and I'm excited to be in the lineup,'' Strachan said before the game. “I look back to those first few days of being called up and the nerves that come with it. Now I have been there. I've spent some time up here so there's a little bit of a comfort level.''

Said Dineen: “He's played NHL games before and what's nice about giving Tyson the call is it wasn't an easy call. We have many options at San Antonio and we haven't had to use them at all. A large chunk of the forwards we have but we haven't had to reach out for a defenseman. We think he's the right fit for us right now.''

Taking a Break: Florida Panthers Tied with Caps in Points but Really 7th in East after 3-2 SO Loss to Flyers

For a team that finished in dead last in the Eastern Division last season, the Panthers have plenty to be proud of heading into the All-Star break.

Their record in shootouts is not one of them.

Florida lost their sixth shootout and 11th overtime game of the season as Philadelphia's Claude Giroux was the only player to score as the Flyers left the BankAtlantic Center with a 3-2 win. 

The Panthers are just 3-6 in shootouts this season with two wins and all of the losses coming on home ice. Florida goes into its lengthy break tied in points with Washington for the Southeast Division lead but technically are seventh in the Eastern Conference.

“It was a close game but it ticks you off when you lose,'' said Kris Versteeg, whose assist on Tomas Fleischmann's second period goal tied the score. “We have to find ways to win those again. You can't be throwing away so many points. We have to find away.''

Florida took a 1-0 lead at 2:49 of the first when Mikael Samuelsson – playing backside on the power play – hit a slap shot from 50 feet out to beat Sergei Bobrovsky (23 saves). Later in the period, the Flyers got their lone power play chance when Erik Gudbranson went to the box for interference and a strange bounce off Scott Clemmensen's back went into the net. 

The play was reviewed as the goal cage came dislodged but Brayden Schenn's goal was deemed a good goal. The Flyers made it 2-1 late in the first when Jakub Voracek knocked in a nice pass from Tom Sestito.

In the second, Versteeg broke free on a breakaway but didn't shoot, instead backhanded a pass to Tomas Fleischmann. His spin-o-rama move pulled Bobrovsky out of the net and he was able to flip the puck into the empty net.

“Flash made a great play and put it in the net,'' Versteeg said.

Florida had a lot of chances in the third and in overtime, with Fleischmann hitting a post from 15 feet back with 6:08 left. Marcel Goc also missed out on a prime chance a few moments later. 

Clemmensen was sharp for much of the night, stopping 35 shots in his 65 minutes of work before the shootout began. 

“We go into the break feeling good because that was an honest effort,'' Clemmensen said. “We took a point out of this game. We're disappointed any time we lose but we played well. We'll come back. You want to win no matter what and you don't accept defeat. But this is nothing to panic about. They're a good team and we stuck with them. Anything can happen in a shootout''

KULIKOV OUT

The Panthers lost defenseman Dmitry Kulikov for at least the next six weeks after he underwent knee surgery Monday at Doctors Hospital in Coral Gables. Kulikov was injured during Florida's victory on Saturday in Winnipeg yet finished the game by playing eight shifts in the third and three in overtime.

"I think I just twisted it or hit it against the boards," Kulikov told NHL.com. "That aggravated it, made it worse. I was able to finish the game. I was getting worse and worse throughout the game. Afterward, on the plane, it was getting worse. The next day I couldn't even get downstairs at my house. I had to get it done." 

Said Dineen: “That's obviously a big loss for us. I wish his knee felt as good as his attitude. He's such an enthusiastic young man and has been a big part of what we've done this year.''

– Dineen said that no members of the Panthers have been asked to be replacements for the upcoming All-Star Game. The team's lone representative this weekend will be defenseman Brian Campbell.
“We're going to be well represented by Brian and we're excited for him,'' Dineen said. 

– The Panthers are now off for the All-Star break and won't be back together until Monday's afternoon practice in Coral Springs. 

Panthers Lose Dmitry Kulikov for 6-8 Weeks After Knee Surgery ... Tyson Strachan Ready to Go

Panthers defenseman Dmitry Kulikov had knee surgery in Coral Gables on Monday and will miss the next six to eight weeks.

Kulikov was injured during Saturday's win against Winnipeg, although he continued to play. Kulikov played eight shifts in the third period, then three in overtime.

“That's obviously a big loss for us,'' Dineen said. “I wish his knee felt as good as his attitude. He's such an enthusiastic young man and has been a big part of what we've done this year. We have some resiliency and we're going to need it.''

Tyson Strachan is in tonight and could be paired with former Blues teammate Mike Weaver.

Strachan says he is glad to be up with the Panthers and didn't think he would have taken this long for Florida to need a d-man from San Antonio. 

He also says he and Matt Bradley are cool.

Despite this:

"I really need to get that off YouTube,'' Strachan said with a laugh.

 

 

Florida Panthers Without Dmitry Kulikov, Recall Tyson Strachan ... Marco Sturm Skating with Team, Out v Flyers

The Panthers had gone all season without losing a defenseman to injury, the only position on the team in which the team hadn't needed to go to its minor league team for a replacement.

That streak is over.

With Ed Jovanovski out with a broken hand suffered last Monday and Dmitry Kulikov suffering an undisclosed injury Saturday, the Panthers need to find defensive help from its AHL affiliate in San Antonio.

Tyson Strachan was recalled Monday afternoon.  

“It's just the nature of the game,'' coach Kevin Dineen said. “Things seem to come in bunches and we'll put a quality group on the ice for Philadelphia and then we'll have some good rest time.''

The Panthers have plenty of defensive options these days. Both Strachan and Nolan Yonkman have NHL experience as Strachan has played in 67 games with the Blues and Yonkman has played in 66 games with Phoenix and Washington. 

Colby Robak, 21, is San Antonio's top offensive scorer from the blueline, earning AHL All-Star honors with five goals with 19 assists. Robak is also tied for the team lead with a plus-11 rating. Robak has yet to play in an NHL game. 

“Those three have really stood out on a consistent basis,'' Dineen said. “I just want to put out there what we feel is the best choice and move forward.''

Kulikov isn't expected to miss much more than Tuesday's game against the Flyers. The Panthers will not workout this week because of the All-Star break so Kulikov may be back next week. Strachan is expected to be sent back to San Antonio for its weekend series against Texas and Houston. 

Dineen said Kulikov got hurt in Saturday's game but played through it. Kulikov played eight shifts in the third period of Florida's 4-3 shootout win in Winnipeg, then three in overtime.

“He had a confrontation in Winnipeg but continued to play through the game,'' Dineen said. “We felt the right steps were to keep him off the ice. We'll know more [Tuesday].'' 

() Forward Marco Sturm has been out of the lineup since being struck on the side of the head by an errant puck while sitting on the bench on Dec. 20. Sturm has spent the past few weeks skating and joined the team for its final workout before the week long break.

Although Sturm has plans to take some time off, he won't stay off the ice too long as he hopes to return next week as the Panthers kickoff a run of four straight divisional games on Feb. 1 against the Capitals.

“I've been feeling good out there and it was good to get back out with the guys,'' Sturm said. 

() Jack Skille played the past two games after missing 13 games with a shoulder injury suffered Dec. 16. Dineen held Skille out of Monday's practice and he's unlikely to play Tuesday.

“I don't want him in the lineup unless he can play 100 percent,'' Dineen said.

() The Panthers snapped an eight-game road losing streak with Saturday's win. The team appeared to be a lot looser on Monday. The Panthers held their final full practice before the All-Star break on Monday. 

“One thing that I haven't faulted is on is our work ethic,'' Dineen said. “To come out with a emotional win is a good way to start us head into the All-Star break. We want to have really good energy against a quality Flyers team.'' 

TUESDAY: FLYERS AT PANTHERS 

When, Where: 7:30 p.m.; BankAtlantic Center, Sunrise

TV/Radio: FSN; WFTL-640

The series: Flyers lead 41-26-7

The game: This is just the second meeting between the two teams this season with the Flyers winning 3-2 in Sunrise on Nov. 13. The Panthers snapped a four-game losing streak by beating Winnipeg 4-3 in a shootout on Saturday but have still dropped 10 of the past 14. The Flyers have lost two of their past three games. 

 

Special Panthers Feature: Kris Versteeg Back on Track? Picks Up Two in Cats Win in Winnipeg

By Adam Wazny, Miami Herald Writer

WINNIPEG — Now that he’s back doing what he does best, how does KrisVersteeg explain his last month of net frustration?

The Florida Panthers right-winger scored two goals in the 4-3 shootout win over the Winnipeg Jets on Saturday, putting an end of a scoring funk that stretched over nine games and 25 calendar days.

In that span (from Dec. 30 to Jan. 20), Versteeg took 24 shots in exactly 216 minutes of ice time, but failed to light the red lamp.

“I’ve been kind of brutal as of late,” he said following Saturday’s win, a statement mixed with equal parts truth and relief.

The honesty didn’t stop there, either.

Versteeg, 25, said it’s easy to look back at the nine games and find a moment where the unwanted streak should have stopped. A missed open net here and a blown breakaway chance there — underlined with countless pucks clanged off posts or crossbars — suddenly morphs into a situation where the player starts to press.

And with that extra press comes extra pressure and a small,unproductive molehill turns into a mountain of concern.

“I couldn’t really explain it,” he said. “I’ve never seen anything like it. You try to fight through it, but you also pray to the hockey gods for a bounce here of there. It does wear on your confidence — I was shaken — but you have to keep going out and play your game.”

The two goals Saturday gave Versteeg at a team-leading 19 and leaves him just three short of his career-high set with the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2008-09 season. Barring another extended lapse in offense this year, Versteeg will set a new scoring standard for himself and in the process, validate general manager Dale Tallon’s belief in his abilities prior to this season.

The Panthers knew he could be an offensive difference maker again — not the misguided mess he was last year with Toronto and Philadelphia, where he could never really get comfortable and eventually found himself regressing into more of a depth guy who could chip in a goal once in a blue moon.

“I’m not saying I’m a top guy, I’m not saying I’m a No. 1 guy, but I always believed I could be a Top-6 forward in this league,” Versteeg added.

What impressed Panthers coach Kevin Dineen was the goal Versteeg potted in the shootout against the Jets Saturday. Winger Mikael Samuelsson eventually scored the winning goal in the seventh round (a hat-tip to goaltender Scott Clemmensen, who made five saves on seven shots), but it was Versteeg’s nifty backhand goal into the top of the net in the second round that caught the coach’s eye.

“He hasn’t great success in the shootout, but he certainly found a little something special," Dineen said. "That was a heck of a goal.”

Versteeg was 0-for-4 in the shootout before his successful attempt against Winnipeg. Overall in his career, the Panthers leading scorer now has five goals in 17 shootout chances.

Thanks to Pittsburgh’s 4-3 overtime win over Washington Sunday, the Panthers (22-15-10, 54 points) remain in first place in the Southeast Division, one point up on the Capitals and four up on Winnipeg.

Florida is back on the ice Tuesday, when the Philadelphia Flyers invade BankAtlantic Center.

It will be the final game for the Panthers before the NHL’s All-Star break, which officially starts Thursday.

Florida Panthers Show Up Late, Beaten Early as Blackhawks Settle 3-1 Win in Opening Period ... FLA Takes Just Three Shots After Garrison Goal

CHICAGO – The Panthers bus, like every other commuter on the streets, got stuck in horrific traffic Friday night because of a major snow storm. The team was late arriving to United Center, thus delaying the start of their game with the Blackhawks.

By the end of the first period, the Blackhawks had made quick work of the struggling and slumping Panthers. Chicago got goals from Jonathan Toews and Duncan Keith in the final 2:20 of the opening period and held on for a 3-1 win in front of an announced 21,777 who braved the elements to enjoy Friday's win at the 'Madhouse on Madison.'

Florida remains tied with the Capitals with 52 points atop the Southeast Division, although both teams are in danger of being outside the final eight in the Eastern Conference due to recent play. The Panthers have dropped eight straight (0-4-4) away from home and 10 of 13 overall. 

Winnipeg, which plays host to the road weary Panthers on Saturday, are three points away from the top spot in the division despite winning just three of nine this month. 

“We've put ourselves,'' coach Kevin Dineen lamented, “back in the muck.''

Indeed. Florida once held a nice lead on both the Capitals and Jets but have since crashed back to earth.

Despite having three of their injured forwards back Friday, the Panthers only created a few offensive chance while the Blackhawks seemed to sit back and beat Jose Theodore when the opportunity arose.

Toews' opening goal with 2:20 left in the first came on a breakaway after a Stephen Weiss shot was cleared around the boards. Chicago's third goal came in similar fashion when Patrick Kane scored his first in eight games by picking off a loose puck, blowing past Dmitry Kulikov and firing high on Theodore. 

Keith's goal came on a 55-foot slap shot from just inside the blueline with 16.4 seconds left in the first.

The Panthers' lone goal came early in the third when Jason Garrison picked up his 13th of the year – all from around the same spot – as he slapped in a Kulikov feed from 50 feet back. 

Florida welcomed back three forwards as Scottie Upshall, Jack Skille and Sean Bergenheim all returned after lengthy absences. 

To make room for that trio, Michal Repik was sent back to the minors on Friday. Mike Santorelli and Matt Bradley, who got his face busted up courtesy of a Colorado stick on Wednesday, were the healthy scratches.

“I'm really excited to get back out there and it's going to be a great opportunity to get the speed back,'' said Upshall, who suffered a sports hernia/hip injury way back on Nov. 10. “This is a big game for all of us.''

DELAY OF GAME 

The Blackhawks pushed back the start of Friday's game 30 minutes after the Panthers bus got stuck in traffic. According to Santorelli and Bradley, the bus didn't get to the arena until 6:40 local time. The game was scheduled to start at 7:30.

Instead, the puck didn't drop until 8:08 CST.

The Panthers were told they could fly to Winnipeg following Friday's game.

 

Snow Night in Chicago: Your Panthers/Blackhawks Friday Nightbook (NOW! With Pictures!) ... Cats Getting Healthy But Likely Stuck in Chicago

CHICAGO – For the past few weeks, a handful of Panthers have gone through the monotony of rehabilitation with the goal of getting back into the lineup their sole motivation. 

Friday night, all three made it back.

The Panthers got a much-needed boost of depth to their forward lines as Scottie Upshall, Jack Skille and Sean Bergenheim all got back on the ice for Friday's late game against the host Blackhawks at United Center. 

To make room for that trio, Michal Repik was sent back to the minors on Friday. Mike Santorelli and Matt Bradley, who got his face busted up courtesy of a Colorado stick on Wednesday, were the healthy scratches.

For the injured three, getting back in couldn't come soon enough.

“I'm really excited to get back out there and it's going to be a great opportunity to get the speed back,'' said Upshall, who suffered a sports hernia/hip injury way back on Nov. 10. “This is a big game for all of us.''

Bergenheim is believed to have been playing with a minor groin injury before really hurting it Dec. 18 against Carolina. Bergenheim didn't skate for a few weeks but came on of late.

Coach Kevin Dineen had a heart-to-heart with him on the ice following the morning skate on Friday. Bergenheim must have convinced his coach he was ready to go.

“I had something earlier on and hopefully it's all in the past now,'' Bergenheim said. “It's been a long time to wait. Those rehab exercises are getting annoying. Watching the team play is the hardest. It's tough watching your friends battle each night. I think I bring something to the team. The past few weeks haven't gone as we had hoped, so now we can get back to that groove we had.''

Skille injured his shoulder Dec. 16 and there was some thought he may need to have surgery on it. But Skille credited the Panthers medical staff for strengthening it enough that he didn't need to go under the knife. 

Instead of missing a sizable chunk of the season, Skille was back in just over a month.

“When we come back, hopefully we add something and help out,'' he said. “I reacted really well but it was really scary at first. We have a great training staff here and they are committed to helping injured players come back in due time. They did a great job with me.''

DELAY OF GAME 

The Blackhawks pushed back the start of Friday's game 30 minutes because of the huge snow storm that hit the Chicago area and delayed the Panthers arrival. 

According to Santorelli and Bradley, the Panthers bus didn't get to the arena until 6:40 local time. The game was scheduled to start at 7:30. Instead, the puck didn't drop until 8:08 CST.

The Panthers were scheduled to fly to Winnipeg following Friday's game, although they are now expected to stay overnight in Chicago and fly north early Saturday morning because of the heavy snow.

() Dineen said he isn't “a message guy,'' by benching Santorelli, but with so many healthy players back, someone had to sit. Santorelli, who scored 20 goals in 82 games for the Panthers last season, missed the start of this campaign with a shoulder injury and has yet to catch fire.

Santorelli has five goals in 37 games – and just one over his past 17 games. 

“One thing we have not had this year is depth,'' Dineen said. “This is the first time our core group has been able to go out and play.''

() Former Panthers winger Michael Frolik – who came to Chicago for Skille – has struggled lately and came into Friday's game with no goals in his past 16 games. Frolik has been relegated to Chicago's fourth line.

“It’s not easy when they’re not going in,” Frolik said. “I try to work hard in practice and do some extra stuff. Hopefully, it’s going to turn.'' 

() There will be a watch party for Saturday's 8:30 game at Winnipeg as it not being televised locally. The party, which will include the dedication of a 'Panthers Patio,' will be at the Duffy's at 4800 West Hillsboro Boulevard in Coconut Creek. 

Florida Panthers Jack Skille Poised to Return v Blackhawks ... Michal Repik Waived ... Jose Theodore: South Florida is Final Destination

Jack Skille, who hasn't played since injuring his shoulder Dec. 16, looks to make his return Friday against the Blackhawks.

Traded for Michael Frolik last February, Skille was on a line with Shawn Matthias and Scottie Upshall (out since Nov. 10 with a hip injury) during Thursday's practice.

“The shoulder feels strong and they've made sure I didn't rush anything,'' Skille said. “I think it's able to go with my style of play. That was the big concern.''

Michal Repik, who has been playing the best hockey of his Panthers career, was put on waivers and will be sent to San Antonio if he clears Friday at noon.

“I've played more minutes here than I'm used to. I feel confident and good,'' Repik said. “Before I was scared to do anything on the ice.''

-- Speaking of being at home, goalie Jose Theodore was joking with a reporter from the Denver Post Thursday when he declared “Florida is my last stop.'' 

Theodore, who has played for the Canadiens, Avs, Capitals and Wild, made it clear he isn't thinking about retirement.

“I didn't say this would be my last contract,'' he said.

Theodore is signed through next season. Theodore made 40 saves in Wednesday's loss to the Avs.

 

Florida Panthers Coming 'Home' to Chicago ... Five Panthers from Blackhawks 2010 Cup Team Return

DENVER – As the Panthers were packing up their gear inside the visitors locker room at Pepsi Center, one equipment manager was heard singing 'Sweet Home Chicago.'

For a number of the Panthers, South Florida is home now yet Chicago still holds a dear place in their heart.

A total of five players who were part of the Blackhawks' 2010 Stanley Cup championship team now play for the Panthers and some will be returning to Chicago for the first time since leaving the Hawks when the two meet Friday night at United Center. 

Brian Campbell and Tomas Kopecky left Chicago over the summer; Kris Versteeg was traded to Toronto after the championship run and hasn't been back. Jack Skille played there as a member of the Panthers last season and John Madden played two games in Chicago with the Wild.

“It's more than just another game. That place was close to me and a lot of players in this room,'' said Versteeg, who has the date Chicago won the Cup tattooed on the inside of his right bicep.

“It's something I've been looking forward to. I want to see the banner, one a lot of us didn't get to see get raised. I still haven't seen it. Hopefully we have a big game as well. There's no bitterness. It was business. I'm happy where I'm at.''

The Panthers flew to Chicago Thursday afternoon and some of the Florida Blackhawks had plans. Campbell needs to check up on his house in Lincoln Park while Kopecky had dinner plans. Versteeg said he wasn't going to do much, not with the Panthers playing back-to-back games in Chicago and Winnipeg.

A Florida win here on Wednesday may have made the trip back a little more relaxing. But after dropping seven straight road games, the Panthers are starting to feel a little desperate. Nostalgia and visits are fun. The Panthers need a win.

“It'll be nice to be back in the city, check up on everything,'' Campbell said. “It's always fun playing in that barn. But we need to put some wins together, we've been running below .500 for this stretch. Chicago was good to me, a good place.''

Chicago won in a shootout in the previous meeting on Nov. 3 at BankAtlantic Center.

“It's special to play against your old teammates but that's it,'' Kopecky said. “We gave them two points the last time and we need to come out of that building with two points.''

FRIDAY: PANTHERS AT BLACKHAWKS

When, Where: 8:30 p.m.; United Center, Chicago

TV/Radio: FSN; WQAM-560

The series: Chicago leads 14-9-3

The game: This is the final game of a two-game set with the Blackhawks beating the Panthers in a shootout in November. Chicago has won two straight and four of the past five. The Panthers played their first game in franchise history in Chicago, skating to a 4-4 tie on Oct. 6, 1993. Jack Skille and Scottie Upshall (out since Nov. 10) are expected to return to the lineup with Mike Santorelli sitting out.

Florida Panthers Road Woes Continue as Avs Rally for 4-3 OT Win ... Cats Led 3-1 in Third Period ... The Ten OT Losses Most in League

DENVER – The Florida Panthers may still be in line for a postseason spot, although tough overtime losses like those from Wednesday night could derail their hopes.

The Panthers lost for the 10th time in overtime this season – more than any team in the league – when Ryan O'Reilly's goal beat Jose Theodore and handed the host Avalanche a 4-3 win.

Florida led 3-1 early in the third when Tomas Kopecky scored on the opening shot of the period.

The Panthers have lost seven straight away from home (0-3-4) and nine of the past 12 overall. Florida is 3-10 in overtime/shootouts this season.

“Whenever you have a two goal lead in the third, you want to win. Yeah, we're disappointed,'' a curt Stephen Weiss said. “We know how to play. It's just a matter of us burying our chances when we had them and they got half a chance and it went in. That's the difference.''

Weiss looked to be one of Florida's heroes as he snapped his 15-game goal drought by putting the Panthers up 2-1 late in the second period. Yet after Kopecky scored 20 seconds into the third, the Avalanche battled back and found a hero of their own.

Peter Mueller was playing in just his fourth game of the season after missing all of last year and the first 40 of this one. Mueller scored the Avs first two goals of the night and may have had a piece of the game-tying goal credited to Paul Stastny with 3:17 left. 

Colorado fans, who thought the goal should goal to Mueller, showered the rink with hats and ski caps anyway.

Florida had plenty of chances in the third to extend its lead but failed to score on a four-minute power play and looked tired late. The Avs outshot Florida 17-7 in the third period.

“The altitude probably played into it,'' coach Kevin Dineen said. “There was a fatigue factor going down the stretch and we were playing hang-on hockey. That's a tough way to play the game.''

The Panthers had starting goalie Jose Theodore back in the net for the first time since he was run over in the second period of Florida's 3-2 win over Montreal on Dec. 31.

Theodore looked sharp for much of the game against the hard-shooting Avs – whom he played for for parts of three seasons – and stopped 40 shots. 

Florida took a 1-0 lead in the opening period when Marcel Goc knocked in a loose puck while battling in front of the net during a power play. 

Weiss made it 2-1 in the third. The last time Weiss had gone 16 games without a goal was during his first full season with the Panthers back in 2003. 

As is usually the case during long slumps, the puck found an unorthodox way into the net. Weiss, playing in his 600th NHL game Wednesday, charged in on goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere but was pulled down by Colorado's Ryan O'Byrne. 

Weiss hit the ice and slid hard into the goalie and the cage. He also took the loose puck with him as it rolled across the line to give the Panthers a 2-1 lead with 1:12 left in the second period.

Weiss is now 13 games away from tying former teammate Radek Dvorak for the top spot in games played in franchise history.

“He worked hard for that goal,'' Dineen said. “Nothing's coming easy right now.''

DADONOV DEALT

The Panthers gave up on Russian winger Evgenii Dadonov on Wednesday, trading him and center A.J. Jenks to Carolina for a pair of prospects. Dadonov was Florida's lone representative at last year's All-Star Weekend (he played in the future game) but had a poor training camp and was sent to AHL San Antonio soon after the season started.

Dadonov, 22, played in 15 games for the Panthers this season with two goals and an assist. He had eight goals in 36 games last season. Florida got AHL center Jonathan Matsumoto and 20-year-old winger Mattias Lindstrom from the Hurricanes. Lindstrom, a third round pick in 2009, is playing in Sweden this year. 

() Defenseman Ed Jovanovski had surgery on his broken right hand on Wednesday and coach Kevin Dineen said the 35-year-old could be out as long as two months. Jovanovski broke his hand during a first period fight Monday. 

() Tomas Fleischmann played in his first game in Denver since leaving the Avs as a free agent on July 1. Fleischmann had 21 points in 22 games for the Avs last season before his season was ended in February because of blood clots in his lungs. Fleischmann, who came to Colorado last season in a trade with the Capitals, was stopped on a great scoring chance in the third period. 

 

Florida Panthers John Madden Quick to Get into Swing of Things ... Notes from Cats and Avs

DENVER – John Madden wasn't smiling when he came out of the Panthers locker room to partake in the age-old pregame ritual of reworking his stick before making his debut with the team on January 6.

That's because he was too nervous to smile. 

“I felt like a rookie again,'' Madden said.

Before taking the ice with the Panthers that night in New Jersey, Madden hadn't played since his final game with the Minnesota Wild on April 2. Madden waited throughout the summer for a contract offer that never came. Then the season started. Someone was sure to call, right?

Finally, in December, the injury ravaged Panthers called the three-time Stanley Cup champ to see if he was interested in playing hockey down south.

“This is a great group to play with and the system here fits me well,'' Madden said before Florida's late game against the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday.

“I'm still trying to find my way through some things, but I'm having fun. Even though I haven't put up any points, I feel I am contributing to the team on a daily basis. Moving forward, I think I'll fit in more and do more on the ice.''

Madden made his debut with the Panthers just two days after signing a pro-rated one-year contract with the team. Although the Panthers had discussed sending Madden to the minors for a few games to get ready, they never did.

“I'm not going to lie, it wasn't easy although I'm glad to have gotten into games so early,'' Madden said. “I sat home for eight months and that was very difficult. They have really helped me acclimate myself.''

Before the Panthers officially signed Madden – he had visa issues he had to take care of – former teammates praised his hard-nosed style of play and how quickly he would adapt to the Panthers. 

They seemingly were right on. Madden may have showed signs of rust in his third game back with the team against Vancouver, but aside from that, he's played strong.

Coach Kevin Dineen joked that it would be easier for Madden to play his style after months off, comparing him to a Ford F-150 that had been sitting in a garage. “They usually fire right up,'' Dineen said. 

“He's definitely an intelligent player,'' Dineen said.

DADONOV DEALT

The Panthers gave up on Russian winger Evgenii Dadonov on Wednesday, trading him and center A.J. Jenks to Carolina for a pair of prospects. Dadonov was Florida's lone representative at last year's All-Star Weekend (he played in the future game) but had a poor training camp and was sent to AHL San Antonio soon after the season started.

Dadonov, 22, played in 15 games for the Panthers this season with two goals and an assist. He had eight goals in 36 games last season.

Florida got AHL center Jonathan Matsumoto and 20-year-old winger Mattias Lindstrom from the Hurricanes. Lindstrom, a third round pick in 2009, is playing in Sweden this year. 

() Defenseman Ed Jovanovski had surgery on his broken right hand on Wednesday and Dineen said the 35-year-old could be out as long as two months. Jovanovski broke his hand during a first period fight Monday. 

() Center Stephen Weiss played in his 600th NHL game on Wednesday, all of which coming with the Panthers. Weiss is 13 games away from tying Radek Dvorak in becoming the team's all-time leader in games played.

() Goalie Jose Theodore was back in net for the Panthers after missing the past few weeks after tweaking a knee after getting run over Dec. 31 against the Canadiens. Theodore spent parts of three seasons with the Avalanche. “I have a lot of good memories from here,'' he said.

For complete coverage of Florida's late game against Colorado, visit The Miami Herald's On Frozen Pond blog at http://bit.ly/2LyIGw

Florida Panthers Season Ticket Renewal Includes Postseason 'Discount' as 'Free' Parking Era Ends at The Billboard

The Florida Panthers are as close to a playoff berth as they've been in the past decade.

And they're ready to cash in. 

Now.

All the gimicks, most of the giveaways, the free parking -- over.

Well, for now anyway.

According to a season ticket renewal secured by The Miami Herald, the Panthers will sell postseason tickets to season ticket holders at their current price.

But only if they pay up in full for next season by Feb. 13 or make three monthly payments and have the account paid for.

For instance, a fan sitting in the 400 level would pay around $12 per playoff ticket – same as what he/she pays for regular season games – if purchased in advance and with next year secure. 

If you don't renew? 

The strip of 16 playoff tickets can still be purchased, only the price goes from $200* to $1,100 – or $53 per game.

That's an increase of more than 400 percent over what one would spend by renewing.

(*) – Season ticket holders who do not renew have to buy the entire playoff run (16 games) in advance. Full season ticket holders who renew for next season can buy the playoffs round-by-round.

Whatever games aren't played will be refunded at a later date. Or turned into Panther Bucks. Your choice!

-- The 'free*' parking that most have enjoyed the past few seasons is ending at the end of this regular season. 

The Panthers will charge at the gate for parking in the postseason – unless you are a full season ticket holder in good standing for 2012-13, you get in free. 

If you are not renewed, you have to pay. Included in that $1,100 bill is $240 for 'game day parking.'

The Panthers also say they will charge a “minimum” of $15 per car next season for everyone except for FULL season ticket holders.

The wording on the document says that it will be 'variable price, based on event.' 

So, don't be surprised if fans coming to see the Rangers and Canadiens get hit with $30 parking.

The Panthers will offer $5 parking (in advance) for those who buy half season plans and $10 for those with some sort of a mini plan.

Other charges:

-- $5 service charge.

-- $10 donation to the Panthers Foundation.

-- $59.99 subscription to the 'Panthers Insider' magazine.

According to one season ticket holder, you can have the previous two charges taken off your bill. 

-- It's $20 extra to get real tickets instead of e-tickets.

-- Season ticket holders are getting a 'free' Panthers home jersey (maximum of six per account).

So that's cool.

#FlaPanthers Hit the Road ... Jovo's Injury Opportunity for Ellerby ... Theo's Back

BY BILL VAN SMITH

A lot of puzzles come in pieces, and as Florida Panther Keaton Ellerby said Tuesday, “We know it’s a big piece of the puzzle that went missing Monday night.”

Ellerby, speaking after Tuesday’s practice in Coral Springs following Monday’s 3-2 shootout loss to the Boston Bruins, was referring to veteran defender Ed Jovanovski. And Ellerby knows all too well that he is the replacement puzzle piece.

“It’s tough to see one of our biggest leaders go down like that,” Ellerby said. “He went down fighting. He went down supporting the team. Now I have to step in and do what I can and do everything the coach has asked.”

When he said Jovanovski went down fighting, Ellerby was talking literally. Jovanovski injured his hand – probably broke it – during a first-period fight with Daniel Paille, and he could miss substantial time. The fight was Jovanovski’s first of the season and it will keep him from going on the Panthers’ upcoming three-game road trip.

So, in the overall picture, Jovanovski’s counter-punching against the Bruins turned out to be counter-productive.

“He’s going to see a specialist Wednesday morning and won’t be going on the road trip with us,” coach Kevin Dineen said. “He’ll be getting an evaluation and a diagnosis and a length of treatment, so we’ll wait until Wednesday to make any statement on that.”

Is Dineen confident with Ellerby?

“Absolutely,” Dineen said. “He can go out there and fill right in but you don’t replace a guy like Ed Jovanovski.

''But with Ellerby, when preparation meets opportunity, that’s basically where he’s at. I like his size [6-5, 217] and his skating and his willingness to be a physical player and engage a defenseman.

“I give him credit. He has put in the work and now the opportunity has presented itself. He needs to be in the thick of things.”

Ellerby, 23, readily admitted the season has been frustrating. “It’s never fun to sit out and watch,” he said of minimal playing time. “It’s been a long year so far personally."

Nevertheless, he said he has been learning -- particularly from Jovanovski. He said it's hard not to from Jovanovski.

"He's the hardest worker out there, in the rink and off the rink," Ellerby said. "Look at him, he's played in the Olympics, All-Star games, the playoffs."

Ellerby will be putting some of that learning to use soon.

“Now it’s time to step up,” he said.

THEODORE TO TRAVEL

Goalie Jose Theodore skated Tuesday and Dineen said he would make the upcoming road trip, which begins Wednesday at the Avalanche.

The Panthers sent goalie Brian Foster back to San Antonio, and Dineen said, “That’s a fairly telling statement. I wouldn’t send him back unless Theo was close. But it’s really day to day and I haven’t got today’s report.”

Asked if he expected Theodore to play on the road trip, Dineen said, “I do.”

STRONG FINISH?

The Panthers have won only one of their past five games and are trying to put that behind them and finish with a flourish in their four games before the All-Star break.

“We want to finish up strong,” Dineen said. “We look at the next four games as extremely important to us. That really has been our focus since our Christmas break, but it hasn’t gone great in the standings or on the scoreboard so far. “

FORWARD HO

The Panthers have gotten suddenly healthy at the forward position. Marco Sturm (concussion), Jack Skille (shoulder), Scottie Upshall (hip) and Sean Bergenheim (groin) have all been practicing.

Sturm is the only one who will not make the road trip.

Dineen said “there are no guarantees” on who will get playing time. “No matter what language you speak, we can all count. If there are 14 healthy forwards, that means there will be two out,” Dineen said.

Florida Panthers Play Strong in 3-2 SO Loss to Boston Bruins ... Ed Jovanovski Injures Hand During First Period Scrum

After a horrible performance Friday at home against Pittsburgh, the Panthers desperately needed a strong game against the defending Stanley Cup champions on Monday.

Despite taking a defeat in the standings, the Panthers did just that as they more than held their own against visiting Boston in a 3-2 shootout loss in front of an announced 19,018 at BankAtlantic Center.

With the point gained in the standings, Florida once again took sole possession of first place in the Southeast Division over idle Washington.

“That was a good hockey game, a fun game to be a part of,'' said Stephen Weiss, who became the Panthers all-time leader with 232 assists after helping on Shawn Matthias' game-tying goal in the second.

“We would have liked to come out on the other side, but if we play like that, we're going to have success. We needed to bounce back and have a better effort than the last time out. We had a few chances to win it. It just wasn't meant to be.''

Said coach Kevin Dineen: “I liked the response after a pretty average game against Pittsburgh. We knew the game would have a little bit of testosterone to it. Unfortunately for us, we couldn't score that final score or get the final save.''

One negative from Monday's game: Defenseman Ed Jovanovski could miss some substantial time after injuring his hand during a first period fight.

Jovanovski had his hand wrapped up after the game but wouldn't confirm whether the hand was broken or not. He's expected to see a surgeon on Tuesday.

Another negative is Florida's continued struggle in shootouts. Florida has won just two of seven shootouts this season – all on home ice – as Monday's went four rounds.

After going scoreless through two rounds, Stephen Weiss scored to give the Panthers a short-lived lead as Patrice Bergeron (who scored Boston's two regulation goals) followed suit. Boston won it in Round 4 when David Krejci beat Scott Clemmensen.

“We need efforts like that on a consistent basis to win in this league,'' said Clemmensen, who made 33 saves. Boston scored on its initial shot of the night. “We were right there.''

Florida played a strong first period yet trailed 1-0, then scored twice in the second with Jason Garrison tying the score at 1 with another of his patented bombs from way out that worked past Tuukka Rask (38 saves). 

Matthias was stopped by Rask on a first period breakaway yet came back in the second with one, beating the Boston goalie – who shutout the Panthers 8-0 on Dec. 23 at the Garden) – by squeezing the puck through his skates. 

“The good thing was I knew where to go the second time,'' said Matthias. “That was a big goal for us. .-.-. This was good for the confidence. They're a great team, been killing some of the best teams by scores like 6-0. And you saw what they did to us the last time. We have to take the positives and build from there.''

Florida had numerous chances in the third period to take the lead, with Michal Repik getting stopped on a breakaway with 1:01 left. The Panthers had a power play in overtime but couldn't connect as Kris Versteeg was stopped on a prime chance. Versteeg was also stopped with 15 seconds remaining.

-- Jose Theodore continues to work his way back from a knee injury suffered Dec. 31 against the Canadiens but didn't dress for Monday's game against the Bruins.

Dineen said Theodore will be on Florida's upcoming road trip and he expects Theodore to play this week.

-- Florida had four of their injured forwards on the ice Monday and Dineen said all four are close enough to coming back that he's now considering making lineup changes once they are officially cleared by medical staff.

Marco Sturm (concussion) joined Jack Skille (shoulder), Scottie Upshall (hip) and Sean Bergenheim (groin) at the morning skate.

With so many players looking to come back, general manager Dale Tallon has some decisions to make. Florida is only allowed to carry 23 players on its active roster and are at 21. Michal Repik has played well, but could be headed back to the minors.

Keaton Ellerby, who hasn't played since Dec. 23, will likely replace Jovanovski.

-- The Panthers held a moment of silence before Monday's game to honor fallen Pompano Beach firefighter Bill Elliott Jr. Elliott, 49, died on Jan. 6 after falling during a ladder drill. 

Panthers Head South, Get Rousing Reception in Kendall

The Panthers skated in Miami-Dade County on Saturday for the first time since leaving Miami Arena in 1998 for new digs in Sunrise.

The stands at Kendall Ice Arena were full and the line for autographs from players snaked around the back of the building. 

The team supplied a charter bus for the drive down from Sunrise, although some players chose to drive themselves. 

“After the first few games, I knew we had some pretty good fans,'' said Matt Bradley after signing autographs for 15 minutes. “These things are a lot of fun. It's cool to practice in a different place and meet new fans.

"And we got to see some kids play here before we practiced which was fun. I'm jealous of their hands. They were good.''

Said Dineen: “What this shows is the tentacles the Panthers have in the South Florida market. This was a fabulous turnout and we're really thankful for our fan base. It's a good setup for us.

"It's nice to be able to get out and interact with our wide fan base and come down to Kendall. That's a good day for us.''

Panthers Top Trio Struggling, Ice Time Limited v Pens on Friday

The Panthers top line had been a source of so many goals earlier this season, no one saw the party coming to an end. 

Although the trio of Stephen Weiss, Tomas Fleischmann and Kris Versteeg have plenty of time to get things going again, the well of prosperity they once brought has been dry of late.

On Friday night, with the three on the ice as Pittsburgh's Tyler Kennedy walked in on Scott Clemmensen to give the Penguins a 3-0 lead on the opening shot of the third period, coach Kevin Dineen had obviously seen enough.

The trio were split up for the rest of the period, with all three seeing limited minutes in the later stages of the Penguins' 4-1 win at BankAtlantic Center.

Versteeg, one of the big success stories of the Panthers thus far, spent most of the third period on the bench. Versteeg was benched after the Kennedy goal and didn't get back in until there was 7:03 remaining. He played 48 seconds before sitting for the remainder of the night. 

“I think that was a pretty strong reflection of my feelings were on his play,'' Dineen said. “That's not a one-game snapshot. I don't just do that on one game. I think it's been a stretch of games where he, in such an important leadership role, needs to play to a higher level of hockey.''

Said Versteeg: “Obviously I want to be out on the ice. When things aren't going, I guess you have to find ways to get guys going. It's been up-and-down lately, but we're still getting chances. I don't know how many posts or empty nets we've missed. If one of those goes in, it changes the whole dynamic, gets the confidence going.''

Versteeg wasn't the only player to see his playing time diminished in the embarrassing loss.

Weiss – who hasn't scored since Dec. 5, a span of 14 games – skated on just five shifts for 4:14 of the third.

Fleischmann got four shifts for 3:28 and had a great scoring chance in the third period but couldn't connect off a pass from Weiss while in front of the net. 

Weiss missed two games last month with a rib injury but he said that hasn't effected his play. Dineen refused to comment on whether he thought Weiss was still battling with the injury. 

For Weiss, who hasn't gone this long without a goal since going scoreless in 12 straight during the 2006-07 season, it's obvious this stretch is wearing on him.

The smile Weiss had been carrying around in the first couple of months of the season hasn't been spotted in weeks.

In the first 25 games they played together, the three combined for an average of 1.32 goals and almost two assists per game. In the past 17 games they have averaged less than a goal and assist per night. 

“You just keep your head down and keep going,'' Weiss said. “Whatever you want to call it, we heard it loud and clear. We have to be better on both ends of the puck. We need to start chipping in again.''

-- Goalie Jose Theodore and forwards Sean Bergenheim, Jack Skille and Scottie Upshall all took part in the workout although Dineen said it's too early to tell if any of them would be available for Monday's game against the Bruins.

The Panthers will practice Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at Saveology.com Iceplex in Coral Springs. Admission is free.

Fun With #FlaPanthers Goalie Masks, Part XII: Jose Theodore

Panthers goalie Jose Theodore was rocking a new mask on Saturday although he says he's not decided whether it will be his new game mask or not.

Theodore, who broke out the 'Bikini Cat' mask during training camp, said he has had gargoyles on his old masks because he liked the idea of the legend that gargoyles 'defended the city.' 

On his new mask, Theodore brings the idea back -- with a tropical take: Tiki carvings defending sand castles. With palm trees and stuff.

It looks pretty cool.

Here you go.

Panthers Get Lost in Pittsburgh Flood 4-1 ... Jovo: 'That was a Debacle'

It would be easy to blame Scott Clemmensen for Florida's loss on Friday considering Pittsburgh's first two goals came in fairly easy fashion.

Yes, Clemmensen should shoulder some of the responsibility for an ugly 4-1 loss to the banged-up Penguins in front of an announced 18,658 at BankAtlantic Center. Yet the Panthers have no one to blame but themselves – and should be thanking Clemmensen the game didn't get completely out of hand earlier.

“That was a debacle from the get-go,'' defenseman Ed Jovanovski said. “We got outplayed, outworked. It was obvious. There was no push back and our goalie kept us in it. We had no answer for them.''

Clemmensen stopped the first 20 shots he faced before Pittsburgh got on the board as his teammates did little to nothing until they were down three goals.

Florida got a Michal Repik goal in the third and a few golden chances after that, yet dug too big a hole against Marc-Andre Fluery and a Pittsburgh team that had lost six straight.

Pittsburgh outshot the Panthers 41-26 and had 26 more shot chances (shots, missed shots, blocked shots) in the game.

“We didn't have their intensity level,'' coach Kevin Dineen said. “They came in ready to do whatever it took to win. We were looking for an easier way to win the game.''

As far as the Panthers lead in the Southeast goes, well, it could be gone before they play Boston on Monday night. Washington, which beat the Penguins Wednesday and Tampa Bay on Friday, is now two points back. And the Capitals play host to the struggling Hurricanes on Sunday.

The eight point cushion Florida enjoyed in December seems a lifetime ago.

If the Panthers weren't leading the division, their 50 points would put them tied for fifth place in the east instead of their current spot of third. Florida has lost seven of 10. The Penguins remain tied in points with Washington for the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference.

“You learn from games, good or bad,'' Clemmensen said. “It's going to be tight as it is every year. That's what makes a difference between playoff teams and teams that don't make it. Good teams find a way to win and find a way out of bad spots. This team has played consistent hockey for the most part. It's not time to hit the panic button. That just wasn't our best game. We'll move on. We have played better and expect to play better.''

Florida, which had three days between games, looked slow and surprised by Pittsburgh's tenacious play.

Pittsburgh didn't score in the opening period, but had 28 shot attempts to Florida's 11. That trend continued in the second as the Penguins again took the game to the Panthers and picked up a pair of goals to go into the second break up 2-0.

Clemmensen would definitely like the first goal back as he should have been credited for the second assist after playing the puck outside the crease and inadvertently feeding it to Pittsburgh's Matt Cooke, who in turn, passed it to Steve Sullivan. He deposited the puck into an empty net as Clemmensen couldn't get back.

With less than 45 seconds left in the period, Evgeni Malkin carried the puck in with Chris Kunitz on his right for a two-on-one rush. Malkin shot the puck himself with Clemmensen making the save. The puck, however, bounced to the back boards where Malkin pulled it in and backhanded a shot to the net. The puck found its way past Clemmensen and it was 2-0. Tyler Kennedy made it 3-0 on Pittsburgh's initial shot of the third and that was about that.

Aside from Repik's goal, Tomas Fleischmann whiffed on a shot in front of the net with 7:28 left. That would have given Florida life at 3-2. Instead, Pittsburgh's James Neal made it 4-1 with 4:17 remaining.

The trio of Stephen Weiss, Kris Versteeg – who was benched and played just two shifts in the third – haven't scored in four straight games. Weiss, who appears to still be slowed from a rib injury suffered last month, hasn't scored in 14 games.

-- The Panthers appear to be getting much healthier these days, leaving Dineen with some decisions to make as early as next week. Sean Bergenheim, Jose Theodore, Jack Skille and Scottie Upshall all participated in Friday's morning skate. Theodore (knee) is expected to be back in net Monday against the Bruins.

-- For the first time since leaving Miami Arena for Sunrise in 1998, the Panthers will be on the ice in Miami-Dade County on Saturday. The Panthers will hold a practice at Kendall Ice Arena at 11:30 a.m. Admission is free.

Panthers Going Back to Miami: Cats to Practice in Dade County for First Time since Leaving Miami Arena in 1998

When the Panthers packed up and left Miami Arena to the Heat in 1998 for new digs up in a sleepy burgh called 'Sunrise,' who would have thought it would take them this long to go back?

On Saturday, the Panthers will skate on Dade County ice for the first time since losing 7-3 to the Flyers on April 16, 1998.

How long ago was that? The Panthers leading scorers in 1997-98 were Ray Whitney, Dave Gagner and Robert Svehla. John Vanbiesbrouck appeared in 60 games that season.

It's all going down at Kendall Ice Arena.

The players have been told to be there by 11 a.m. tomorrow so practice should begin before the scheduled noon starting time. 

The practice at the 'southernmost' rink in the U.S. is free and open to the public. 

If you are going, I would get there early. 

Earlier this season, the team was mobbed by a large crowd in Pembroke Pines. 

It's good to see the Panthers spreading the hockey around South Florida. Last year, they returned to their old rink in Lighthouse Point. This year, they're practicing in Pembroke Pines and Kendall. 

Next year, it appears that they will hold at least one practice in Lake Worth.

The more, the merrier.