Sleeper: Sam Reinhart -- Like last year's Calder Trophy winner, Nathan MacKinnon, Reinhart possesses all the tools needed to become be an NHL star. The question is, when will that happen? For MacKinnon, things evolved quickly, and if Reinhart can make the opening-night lineup, there's a chance the forward could take home some hardware in June. Reinhart had 36 goals and 105 points in the WHL last season and is worth a pick late in your draft based on his tremendous upside.
-- Follow Matt Cubeta on Twitter: @NHLQubes
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Buffalo needed to rebuild, but it went beyond just bottoming out in the standings for the first part of the season. Coach Ted Nolan arrived in November and at least helped make the club's losses more competitive.
For Nolan, success next season might not be defined by wins or points, but by how some of the franchise's top young players develop at the NHL level. In an effort to help those young players, the Sabres added several veterans while expunging some bad contracts.
Matt Moulson and Brian Gionta will be leaned on as much for their work ethic and the examples they set as their ability to help revive an anemic offense. The Sabres missed out on the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NHL Draft but still grabbed a potential franchise center in Sam Reinhart at No. 2.
2014年8月18日星期一
Sabres hope veterans help prospects adjust to lineup
The Buffalo Sabres finished 2013-14 with the fewest points in a full 82-game NHL season since the New York Islanders had the same amount, 52, in 2000-01.
2014-15 FANTASY PREVIEW: SABRES
Undervalued: Cody Hodgson -- After breaking out with 34 points during the lockout-shortened season, Hodgson disappointed last year with 20 goals, 44 points and a minus-26 in 72 games.
However, Hodgson, 24, is one of the Sabres' top centers and should continue to receive ample power play time (3:08 per game last season). He's in line for a solid bounce-back season, and you can expect 25-plus goals, 60-plus points with at least 25 power-play points. Just know his plus/minus could hurt you.
Overvalued: Matt Moulson -- For years Moulson was an undervalued fantasy player, but most of that value came from playing wing alongside John Tavares on the New York Islanders. When Moulson landed in Buffalo he struggled with 11 goals, 28 points and a minus-8 in 44 games. He was traded to the Minnesota Wild, where he had six goals and 13 points in 20 games.
Now back with the Sabres, Moulson likely will return to something close to the production he had in those 44 games last season. He might finish with about 20 goals and 50 points, but his substandard rating will make him nothing more than a bench forward in most leagues.
However, Hodgson, 24, is one of the Sabres' top centers and should continue to receive ample power play time (3:08 per game last season). He's in line for a solid bounce-back season, and you can expect 25-plus goals, 60-plus points with at least 25 power-play points. Just know his plus/minus could hurt you.
Overvalued: Matt Moulson -- For years Moulson was an undervalued fantasy player, but most of that value came from playing wing alongside John Tavares on the New York Islanders. When Moulson landed in Buffalo he struggled with 11 goals, 28 points and a minus-8 in 44 games. He was traded to the Minnesota Wild, where he had six goals and 13 points in 20 games.
Now back with the Sabres, Moulson likely will return to something close to the production he had in those 44 games last season. He might finish with about 20 goals and 50 points, but his substandard rating will make him nothing more than a bench forward in most leagues.
Kane and Scarsella didn't run quite as wild in the FHL
To be fair, Kane and Scarsella did show up for one game at an area beer league in July. Scarsella scored seven goals and the longtime friends combined for 19 points.
Kane and Scarsella didn't run quite as wild in the FHL, although they did get to drink Gatorade out of the Father Charles Cup after winning the best-of-three final against Pet Shop Boys, a team primarily of teenage USHL players, including University of New Hampshire commit Andrew Poturalski and Sabres draft picks Justin Bailey and Sean Malone.
"That team we played in the championship this year beat us three out of four games before we played them in the championship," Scarsella said. "So even though we've got all these guys, we still lose games. It just goes to show how good of a league this is."
Days after the league closed for the summer, players were still marveling at how much the FHL has grown. Anyone who managed to beat Kane's team at any point wasn't quite ready to stop talking about it. "My team beat Kane's team twice," Fattey said. "He wasn't there but everyone else was."
Kane and Scarsella didn't run quite as wild in the FHL, although they did get to drink Gatorade out of the Father Charles Cup after winning the best-of-three final against Pet Shop Boys, a team primarily of teenage USHL players, including University of New Hampshire commit Andrew Poturalski and Sabres draft picks Justin Bailey and Sean Malone.
"That team we played in the championship this year beat us three out of four games before we played them in the championship," Scarsella said. "So even though we've got all these guys, we still lose games. It just goes to show how good of a league this is."
Days after the league closed for the summer, players were still marveling at how much the FHL has grown. Anyone who managed to beat Kane's team at any point wasn't quite ready to stop talking about it. "My team beat Kane's team twice," Fattey said. "He wasn't there but everyone else was."
This is not a beer league. This is a skill skate
In just a few years, the league has become a testament to the quality of players in the area. FHL players include the son of former Sabres coach Lindy Ruff and the two sons of Sabres president Ted Black.
The league is dotted with NHL draft picks, including Dylan Blujus (Tampa Bay Lightning) and Alex Lepkowski (Sabres), who this summer were teammates on Flock of Seagulls. Kennedy played on Toto with brothers Pete and Mike Ratchuk, who were drafted in the first round by the Colorado Avalanche and the second round by the Philadelphia Flyers, respectively.
"This is not a beer league. This is a skill skate," Fattey said. "If you were to put a beer league team in our league they would lose 20-0." To be fair, Kane and Scarsella did show up for one game at an area beer league in July. Scarsella scored seven goals and the longtime friends combined for 19 points.
The league is dotted with NHL draft picks, including Dylan Blujus (Tampa Bay Lightning) and Alex Lepkowski (Sabres), who this summer were teammates on Flock of Seagulls. Kennedy played on Toto with brothers Pete and Mike Ratchuk, who were drafted in the first round by the Colorado Avalanche and the second round by the Philadelphia Flyers, respectively.
"This is not a beer league. This is a skill skate," Fattey said. "If you were to put a beer league team in our league they would lose 20-0." To be fair, Kane and Scarsella did show up for one game at an area beer league in July. Scarsella scored seven goals and the longtime friends combined for 19 points.
"We had a pretty stacked team," Schneider admitted
A Buffalo native, Kane was invited to the league by former youth hockey teammate Vinny Scarsella, one of the league's original players and a forward for the Utah Grizzlies in the ECHL. As captain of Milli Vanilli (each team was named after a 1980s band this summer), Scarsella led a vaunted roster that included Kane, Girgensons, Conacher, Kane's 17-year-old cousin Cullen, and Cole Schneider, an Ottawa Senators prospect who was named FHL MVP in 2013.
"We had a pretty stacked team," Schneider admitted. "I think those guys intimidate some of the younger kids a little bit. I think I would be a little intimidated too, seeing guys like Kane out there. It's fun though. They get to tell their buddies they played with one of the best players in the NHL."
Coaching at nearby St. Francis High School, Fattey launched the league primarily as an outlet for his players, which at that time included Scarsella. The Father Charles Cup is named after Father Charles Jagodzinski, a longtime priest and administrator at St. Francis who is a campus minister at Wake Forest University.
Almost a decade since its inception, the league has expanded in scope and reputation. The entry fee for every player, including the NHL players, is $265. It's continued to be led by Fattey, a Sabres scout who is the director of hockey at Harborcenter. When the sprawling harbor-front development opens in October, it will house two ice sheets, including one with seating for 1,800 spectators. Harborcenter could be the FHL's new home next summer.
"We had a pretty stacked team," Schneider admitted. "I think those guys intimidate some of the younger kids a little bit. I think I would be a little intimidated too, seeing guys like Kane out there. It's fun though. They get to tell their buddies they played with one of the best players in the NHL."
Coaching at nearby St. Francis High School, Fattey launched the league primarily as an outlet for his players, which at that time included Scarsella. The Father Charles Cup is named after Father Charles Jagodzinski, a longtime priest and administrator at St. Francis who is a campus minister at Wake Forest University.
Almost a decade since its inception, the league has expanded in scope and reputation. The entry fee for every player, including the NHL players, is $265. It's continued to be led by Fattey, a Sabres scout who is the director of hockey at Harborcenter. When the sprawling harbor-front development opens in October, it will house two ice sheets, including one with seating for 1,800 spectators. Harborcenter could be the FHL's new home next summer.
That's typically where things get interesting.
That's typically where things get interesting.
Before each season, Fattey hosts a combine featuring as many as 90 high school players competing for a roster spot; 48 make the cut.
"It's always packed. It's like a tryout for a real hockey team," said Scott Diebold, a goaltender at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute who won league MVP this summer. "It's insane. It's by far the best league in Buffalo. You've got Patrick Kane out there; you've got high schoolers trying to compete against him. It's a really fun league."
That element is ultimately what has kept players coming back, including Kane. The level of competition is impressive, but this wouldn't be a proper summer league if it didn't have a few player-friendly wrinkles.
There are no penalties in the non-checking league; players are awarded a penalty shot after drawing a penalty. Any pucks that hit the roof or netting remain in play, and games are running time with a horn that blows every 75 seconds to remind players to change. Failure to do so results in a penalty shot. "We do that because who's going to tell Pat Kane to get off the ice?" Fattey said. "It also keeps the pace up."
That element is ultimately what has kept players coming back, including Kane. The level of competition is impressive, but this wouldn't be a proper summer league if it didn't have a few player-friendly wrinkles.
There are no penalties in the non-checking league; players are awarded a penalty shot after drawing a penalty. Any pucks that hit the roof or netting remain in play, and games are running time with a horn that blows every 75 seconds to remind players to change. Failure to do so results in a penalty shot. "We do that because who's going to tell Pat Kane to get off the ice?" Fattey said. "It also keeps the pace up."
Kane highlights NHL players in Buffalo summer league
Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane has won the Stanley Cup twice and the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2013. But the NHL star added to his trophy case this summer when he raised the Father Charles Cup in his hometown of Buffalo.
He even paid $265 for the honor.
This is the Fattey Hockey League, the finest summer league in Western New York, where high school players skate against some from the NHL. "There's never been a great skate in Buffalo in the summer. The concept was, 'How do we make it?" said Nik Fattey, the founder and namesake of the FHL. "There are so many good hockey players in Western New York. So how do we get everybody together to play in a league?"
Patrick Kane PATRICK KANE RIGHT WING - CHI GOALS: 29 | ASST: 40 | PTS: 69 SOG: 227 | +/-: 7 Since launching in 2005, the league has expanded from four to 12 teams and become a popular weekly game for current and former NHL players, including Kane, Zemgus Girgensons of the Buffalo Sabres, Cory Conacher of the New York islanders, Tim Kennedy of the Washington Capitals, Chris Mueller of the New York Rangers, and former Sabres defenseman Jay McKee.
Consisting of several current or former players from the NHL, American Hockey League, ECHL, United States Hockey League and the NCAA, each team is required to ice four "rookies," local high school players.
This is the Fattey Hockey League, the finest summer league in Western New York, where high school players skate against some from the NHL. "There's never been a great skate in Buffalo in the summer. The concept was, 'How do we make it?" said Nik Fattey, the founder and namesake of the FHL. "There are so many good hockey players in Western New York. So how do we get everybody together to play in a league?"
Patrick Kane PATRICK KANE RIGHT WING - CHI GOALS: 29 | ASST: 40 | PTS: 69 SOG: 227 | +/-: 7 Since launching in 2005, the league has expanded from four to 12 teams and become a popular weekly game for current and former NHL players, including Kane, Zemgus Girgensons of the Buffalo Sabres, Cory Conacher of the New York islanders, Tim Kennedy of the Washington Capitals, Chris Mueller of the New York Rangers, and former Sabres defenseman Jay McKee.
Consisting of several current or former players from the NHL, American Hockey League, ECHL, United States Hockey League and the NCAA, each team is required to ice four "rookies," local high school players.
As Pete Frates' body has been slowed by the disease
It's incredible in two ways. One from the amount of money that has been donated and two from the tremendous amount of visibility, which is so important," Munk said. "Especially for a cause like ALS, a disease that is not as well-known as some other diseases. Only about half the general public is aware of what ALS is."
As Pete Frates' body has been slowed by the disease, he has fought tirelessly to raise awareness for ALS. But he never saw this incredible surge coming. "He has high expectations, but even he is absolutely amazed," John Frates said. "All Pete wants, as a leader and a captain of all his teams that he has ever played on, he just wants his teammates to excel and get the credit. So he's doing this really for all those suffering from ALS. That was his mission."
The Ice Bucket Challenge took an interesting turn when members of the Kennedy family posted a video on Facebook. The video ended with the participation of 86-year-old Ethel Kennedy, the sister of President John Kennedy and Senators Robert and Ted Kennedy. Before getting drenched, she made sure to challenge President Barack Obama. "She calls out Obama personally. It's pretty powerful; I guess he's next," John Frates said. "Then the only one after that is the Pope."
As Pete Frates' body has been slowed by the disease, he has fought tirelessly to raise awareness for ALS. But he never saw this incredible surge coming. "He has high expectations, but even he is absolutely amazed," John Frates said. "All Pete wants, as a leader and a captain of all his teams that he has ever played on, he just wants his teammates to excel and get the credit. So he's doing this really for all those suffering from ALS. That was his mission."
The Ice Bucket Challenge took an interesting turn when members of the Kennedy family posted a video on Facebook. The video ended with the participation of 86-year-old Ethel Kennedy, the sister of President John Kennedy and Senators Robert and Ted Kennedy. Before getting drenched, she made sure to challenge President Barack Obama. "She calls out Obama personally. It's pretty powerful; I guess he's next," John Frates said. "Then the only one after that is the Pope."
Given 24 hours to answer the Ice Bucket Challenge
Given 24 hours to answer the Ice Bucket Challenge, Campbell posted his video online and in turn challenged Bruins teammate Brad Marchand. Marchand accepted the challenge and quickly threw the gauntlet down at four other teammates, including forward Chris Kelly and defenseman Torey Krug.
The Ice Bucket Challenge has expanded at an incredible rate since then, with dozens of NHL players, coaches, executives and even mascots answering the call. In the past few days, those accepting the challenge have included Sidney Crosby, Steven Stamkos, John Tavares, Tuukka Rask and P.K. Subban, along with coaches Jon Cooper, Jack Capuano and Claude Julien.
Some players have added their signature to the challenge. Mike Smith of the Arizona Coyotes had a bulldozer drop the water over his head, and Marc-Andre Fleury of the Pittsburgh Penguins dressed in a banana costume before taking the plunge alongside his family.
The remarkable movement hasn't been confined to the NHL. Athletes from a number of sports have participated, as have actors, politicians and corporate titans.
The Ice Bucket Challenge has expanded at an incredible rate since then, with dozens of NHL players, coaches, executives and even mascots answering the call. In the past few days, those accepting the challenge have included Sidney Crosby, Steven Stamkos, John Tavares, Tuukka Rask and P.K. Subban, along with coaches Jon Cooper, Jack Capuano and Claude Julien.
Some players have added their signature to the challenge. Mike Smith of the Arizona Coyotes had a bulldozer drop the water over his head, and Marc-Andre Fleury of the Pittsburgh Penguins dressed in a banana costume before taking the plunge alongside his family.
The remarkable movement hasn't been confined to the NHL. Athletes from a number of sports have participated, as have actors, politicians and corporate titans.
Frates started the Ice Bucket Challenge on July 29.
The concept was conceived in July by Niya Butts, the coach of the women's basketball team at the University of Arizona. Known as Chillin' 4 Charity, the initiative challenged coaches from around the country to dunk ice water over their heads to raise money for the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, the women's cancers organization named after the late coach.
Putting a twist on the idea, Frates started the Ice Bucket Challenge on July 29. One of the first people challenged was Joe Correia, a teammate of Frates' on the hockey team at St. John's Prep in Danvers, Mass. Almost immediately, Correia answered Frates' challenge, passing the dare on to one of his former hockey teammates, forward Gregory Campbell of the Boston Bruins.
"I give all the credit to Gregory Campbell. He really broke it," said John Frates, Pete Frates' father and one of the leaders of the Pete Frates Fund. "Right after Gregory, Julian Edelman [of the New England Patriots] did it too. The news channels picked it up, and then it went crazy."
Putting a twist on the idea, Frates started the Ice Bucket Challenge on July 29. One of the first people challenged was Joe Correia, a teammate of Frates' on the hockey team at St. John's Prep in Danvers, Mass. Almost immediately, Correia answered Frates' challenge, passing the dare on to one of his former hockey teammates, forward Gregory Campbell of the Boston Bruins.
"I give all the credit to Gregory Campbell. He really broke it," said John Frates, Pete Frates' father and one of the leaders of the Pete Frates Fund. "Right after Gregory, Julian Edelman [of the New England Patriots] did it too. The news channels picked it up, and then it went crazy."
Burke accepted the challenge, as did McConnell.
Burke accepted the challenge, as did McConnell.
NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly accepted the challenge on Aug. 16.
The ALS Association annouced Saturday that more than $10 million has been raised ($11.4 million compared to $1.7 million in the same time period last year). To donate to the ALS Association, click here.
Pete Frates, a former captain of the Boston College baseball team, is credited with starting the challenge. He was 27 when doctors told him in March 2012 that he had ALS, a progressive neurological disease that slowly robs those afflicted of the use of their muscles. At the time of his diagnosis, Frates was belting home runs on a semi-pro team in his native Massachusetts. Today, he is confined to a wheelchair and uses a feeding tube because he is no longer able to swallow.
An active advocate for ALS awareness through the philanthropic fund that bears his name, Frates organized several charity baseball games; a fitting idea considering one of the game's all-time greats, Lou Gehrig, died from the disease. But it was when Frates dared some of his friends to dunk ice water over their heads in the name of ALS awareness that things really took off.
Pete Frates, a former captain of the Boston College baseball team, is credited with starting the challenge. He was 27 when doctors told him in March 2012 that he had ALS, a progressive neurological disease that slowly robs those afflicted of the use of their muscles. At the time of his diagnosis, Frates was belting home runs on a semi-pro team in his native Massachusetts. Today, he is confined to a wheelchair and uses a feeding tube because he is no longer able to swallow.
An active advocate for ALS awareness through the philanthropic fund that bears his name, Frates organized several charity baseball games; a fitting idea considering one of the game's all-time greats, Lou Gehrig, died from the disease. But it was when Frates dared some of his friends to dunk ice water over their heads in the name of ALS awareness that things really took off.
Commissioner Bettman takes Ice Bucket Challenge
With so many charitable causes seeking much-needed donations, who knew a series of videos showing people dunking ice water over their heads could make such a difference?
The exponential growth of the Ice Bucket Challenge through social media has helped raise overall awareness of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, and members of the hockey community have done their part.
ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE
The exponential growth of the Ice Bucket Challenge through social media has helped raise overall awareness of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, with the hockey world making sure to do its part. Watch some of the biggest names in the game take the challenge: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman | Bill Daly Penguins owner Mario Lemieux | Sidney Crosby Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs | Cam Neely Blue Jackets owner John P. McConnell Flames president of hockey ops. Brian Burke
P.K. Subban | John Tavares | Tyler Seguin NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman accepted the challenge Aug. 14 while in Columbus to help promote the 2015 NHL All-Star Game at Nationwide Arena. Boston Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs, Winnipeg Jets executive chairman Mark Chipman and ESPN host John Buccigross were among those who issued the challenge, the Commissioner said. Commissioner Bettman challenged Toronto Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan, Calgary Flames president Brian Burke, Los Angeles Kings assistant general manager Rob Blake and Columbus Blue Jackets owner John McConnell.
The exponential growth of the Ice Bucket Challenge through social media has helped raise overall awareness of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, with the hockey world making sure to do its part. Watch some of the biggest names in the game take the challenge: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman | Bill Daly Penguins owner Mario Lemieux | Sidney Crosby Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs | Cam Neely Blue Jackets owner John P. McConnell Flames president of hockey ops. Brian Burke
P.K. Subban | John Tavares | Tyler Seguin NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman accepted the challenge Aug. 14 while in Columbus to help promote the 2015 NHL All-Star Game at Nationwide Arena. Boston Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs, Winnipeg Jets executive chairman Mark Chipman and ESPN host John Buccigross were among those who issued the challenge, the Commissioner said. Commissioner Bettman challenged Toronto Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan, Calgary Flames president Brian Burke, Los Angeles Kings assistant general manager Rob Blake and Columbus Blue Jackets owner John McConnell.
He is eligible to sign an entry-level contract with the Blue Jackets.
Milano, the 16th pick in the 2014 NHL Draft, attended United States World Junior evaluation camp in early August. There he said he planned to attend Boston College.
He is eligible to sign an entry-level contract with the Blue Jackets.
"Sonny has informed me he will sign a contract with Columbus," Boston College coach Jerry York said via Twitter. "They will dictate his path as he embarks upon his pro career." Milano had 49 goals and 133 points in two seasons with the United States National Team Development Program. He is ranked No. 4 among Blue Jackets prospects by NHL.com.
"I love the fact that Sonny has so much fun playing hockey; he's got that passion," Blue Jackets director of amateur scouting Paul Castron said. "He's not only skilled but a tireless player. He's obviously more offensive than defensive, but loves the game and leaves it all out on the ice." The Columbus Dispatch reports Milano could attend prospect camp in Traverse City, Mich., in September.
"Sonny has informed me he will sign a contract with Columbus," Boston College coach Jerry York said via Twitter. "They will dictate his path as he embarks upon his pro career." Milano had 49 goals and 133 points in two seasons with the United States National Team Development Program. He is ranked No. 4 among Blue Jackets prospects by NHL.com.
"I love the fact that Sonny has so much fun playing hockey; he's got that passion," Blue Jackets director of amateur scouting Paul Castron said. "He's not only skilled but a tireless player. He's obviously more offensive than defensive, but loves the game and leaves it all out on the ice." The Columbus Dispatch reports Milano could attend prospect camp in Traverse City, Mich., in September.
Blue Jackets prospect Milano to play in OHL
Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Sonny Milano will play in the Ontario Hockey League this season rather than at Boston College, the NHL team said via Twitter on Saturday.
30 IN 30: COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS
Taste of success leaves Blue Jackets craving more
World view forms Blue Jackets' top 10 prospects
Blue Jackets want goals, leadership from Hartnell Blue Jackets lineup marked by improving youth Forward Horton among Blue Jackets' five questions ALL 30 IN 30 STORIES ›30 IN 30 CALENDAR › The 18-year-old forward will play for the Plymouth Whalers. Milano, the 16th pick in the 2014 NHL Draft, attended United States World Junior evaluation camp in early August. There he said he planned to attend Boston College.
He is eligible to sign an entry-level contract with the Blue Jackets. "Sonny has informed me he will sign a contract with Columbus," Boston College coach Jerry York said via Twitter. "They will dictate his path as he embarks upon his pro career."
Milano had 49 goals and 133 points in two seasons with the United States National Team Development Program. He is ranked No. 4 among Blue Jackets prospects by NHL.com.
Blue Jackets want goals, leadership from Hartnell Blue Jackets lineup marked by improving youth Forward Horton among Blue Jackets' five questions ALL 30 IN 30 STORIES ›30 IN 30 CALENDAR › The 18-year-old forward will play for the Plymouth Whalers. Milano, the 16th pick in the 2014 NHL Draft, attended United States World Junior evaluation camp in early August. There he said he planned to attend Boston College.
He is eligible to sign an entry-level contract with the Blue Jackets. "Sonny has informed me he will sign a contract with Columbus," Boston College coach Jerry York said via Twitter. "They will dictate his path as he embarks upon his pro career."
Milano had 49 goals and 133 points in two seasons with the United States National Team Development Program. He is ranked No. 4 among Blue Jackets prospects by NHL.com.
What kind of a difference can a new coaching staff make?
4. Is Roberto Luongo still good enough to steal some victories for the Panthers? -- The Panthers' decision to bring back Luongo last March, despite his contract, was made not only to re-energize the franchise, but also to provide some stability in the net.
The Panthers needed their goalies to win games for them last season, but instead Tim Thomas was merely adequate, while Scott Clemmensen and Jacob Markstrom both fell below that line.
Luongo had a .924 save percentage in his 14 games with the Panthers last season, and the team gladly would take that figure again over the course of a full season.
5. What kind of a difference can a new coaching staff make? -- Tallon indicated after letting interim coach Peter Horachek go after last season that he wanted someone with NHL coaching experience, and that's what he got with Gallant.
Furthermore, Gallant was behind the bench for the Canadiens' run to the Eastern Conference Final last season and new assistant Mark Morris was instrumental in developing many of the players who helped the Los Angeles Kings win two of the past three Stanley Cup titles in his role as coach of the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League for the past eight seasons.
Luongo had a .924 save percentage in his 14 games with the Panthers last season, and the team gladly would take that figure again over the course of a full season.
5. What kind of a difference can a new coaching staff make? -- Tallon indicated after letting interim coach Peter Horachek go after last season that he wanted someone with NHL coaching experience, and that's what he got with Gallant.
Furthermore, Gallant was behind the bench for the Canadiens' run to the Eastern Conference Final last season and new assistant Mark Morris was instrumental in developing many of the players who helped the Los Angeles Kings win two of the past three Stanley Cup titles in his role as coach of the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League for the past eight seasons.
The Panthers were busy in free agency on July 1
The Panthers were busy in free agency on July 1, but their acquisitions brought leadership and complementary skills instead of pure offensive firepower. The Panthers could be looking at another long year offensively if their three young forwards don't deliver.
2. Can the Panthers tighten up their defense? -- In addition to their scoring woes, the Panthers also finished second-to-last in the NHL last season in goals allowed. The two big changes in the defense corps involve the arrival of veteran free agent Willie Mitchell from the Los Angeles Kings and the selection of Aaron Ekblad with the first pick in the 2014 draft.
Ekblad is expected to be on the Panthers roster from the start of the season, but it remains to be seen how much of an impact he can make early on. As for Mitchell, 37, the hope is brings stability to a group that features only one other player older than 24, Brian Campbell.
The Panthers defensive corps includes Dmitry Kulikov and Erik Gudbranson, each of whom was re-signed this summer as a restricted free agent. The two first-round picks need to take a step forward if Florida is to improve on the defensive end.
3. How much better can the Panthers special teams become? -- It won't be difficult for the Panthers power play and penalty killing to be better than last season because Florida was last in the League in both categories, and by a wide margin.
Offensively, the Panthers still are looking to replace point man Jason Garrison, whose big slap shot was the key to the power play's success during the playoff season of 2012. At the other end, the Panthers need someone to step in for top penalty-killing defenseman Mike Weaver, who ended up with the Canadiens at the NHL Trade Deadline last season.
2. Can the Panthers tighten up their defense? -- In addition to their scoring woes, the Panthers also finished second-to-last in the NHL last season in goals allowed. The two big changes in the defense corps involve the arrival of veteran free agent Willie Mitchell from the Los Angeles Kings and the selection of Aaron Ekblad with the first pick in the 2014 draft.
Ekblad is expected to be on the Panthers roster from the start of the season, but it remains to be seen how much of an impact he can make early on. As for Mitchell, 37, the hope is brings stability to a group that features only one other player older than 24, Brian Campbell.
The Panthers defensive corps includes Dmitry Kulikov and Erik Gudbranson, each of whom was re-signed this summer as a restricted free agent. The two first-round picks need to take a step forward if Florida is to improve on the defensive end.
3. How much better can the Panthers special teams become? -- It won't be difficult for the Panthers power play and penalty killing to be better than last season because Florida was last in the League in both categories, and by a wide margin.
Offensively, the Panthers still are looking to replace point man Jason Garrison, whose big slap shot was the key to the power play's success during the playoff season of 2012. At the other end, the Panthers need someone to step in for top penalty-killing defenseman Mike Weaver, who ended up with the Canadiens at the NHL Trade Deadline last season.
Finding offense among Panthers' five questions
After making an improbable run to the Southeast Division title in 2011-12, the Florida Panthers stumbled badly the past two seasons, finishing with the worst record in the NHL in 2012-13 and the second-worst last season.
The Panthers still have an abundance of highly touted prospects, either on their roster or in the system, and they also have a new coach in former Columbus Blue Jackets coach and former Montreal Canadiens assistant Gerard Gallant. But they also have a lot of question marks heading into next season, and here are five that jump out:
30 IN 30: FLORIDA PANTHERS With Gallant at helm, Panthers eye quick turnaround Finding offense among Florida's five questions Panthers need Kulikov, Gudbranson to take next step Projected lineup, fantasy preview for 2014-15 No. 1 pick Ekblad leads Panthers' top prospects
ALL 30 IN 30 STORIES ›30 IN 30 CALENDAR › 1. Are the Panthers' promising young forwards ready to make a major impact? -- General manager Dale Tallon has maintained since arriving in Florida in May of 2011 that his blueprint would center around the NHL Draft, and he has accumulated some impressive prospects over the past few years, among them forwards Aleksander Barkov, Nick Bjugstad and Jonathan Huberdeau.
Because the Panthers haven't been able to land a high-scoring veteran forward to lead the way, the team will be relying heavily on those three players to help produce on offense after Florida tied for next-to-last in goals each of the past two seasons.
Bjugstad led the Panthers in scoring last season, but his 38 points were the fewest for a team leader since the last NHL expansion. Barkov shined as a rookie in 2013-14 before his season was cut short by a knee injury, but his all-around game stood out more than his offensive prowess. Huberdeau, meanwhile, will be looking to rebound after he followed his Calder-winning 2013 season with a disappointing sophomore effort.
The Panthers still have an abundance of highly touted prospects, either on their roster or in the system, and they also have a new coach in former Columbus Blue Jackets coach and former Montreal Canadiens assistant Gerard Gallant. But they also have a lot of question marks heading into next season, and here are five that jump out:
30 IN 30: FLORIDA PANTHERS With Gallant at helm, Panthers eye quick turnaround Finding offense among Florida's five questions Panthers need Kulikov, Gudbranson to take next step Projected lineup, fantasy preview for 2014-15 No. 1 pick Ekblad leads Panthers' top prospects
ALL 30 IN 30 STORIES ›30 IN 30 CALENDAR › 1. Are the Panthers' promising young forwards ready to make a major impact? -- General manager Dale Tallon has maintained since arriving in Florida in May of 2011 that his blueprint would center around the NHL Draft, and he has accumulated some impressive prospects over the past few years, among them forwards Aleksander Barkov, Nick Bjugstad and Jonathan Huberdeau.
Because the Panthers haven't been able to land a high-scoring veteran forward to lead the way, the team will be relying heavily on those three players to help produce on offense after Florida tied for next-to-last in goals each of the past two seasons.
Bjugstad led the Panthers in scoring last season, but his 38 points were the fewest for a team leader since the last NHL expansion. Barkov shined as a rookie in 2013-14 before his season was cut short by a knee injury, but his all-around game stood out more than his offensive prowess. Huberdeau, meanwhile, will be looking to rebound after he followed his Calder-winning 2013 season with a disappointing sophomore effort.
Gudbranson is excited about the future of the Panthers' defensive corps.
"Now he's going to have a little more support," Tallon said during the Panthers development camp. "Obviously, goaltending is a big plus. Having good goaltending allows a young defenseman to make a mistake or two without really worrying about it because they can cover up for that. It's all positive, it's all good. [Gudbranson has] got great leadership qualities, his intangibles, the toughness, mean and skilled and all those things. Plus, he has the passion."
Gudbranson is excited about the future of the Panthers' defensive corps. "It's shaping up to be a real force," Gudbranson said after signing his new contract. "I think a great part is we're all good skaters. We're all going to be fast, we're going to be able to move the puck well and we bring some size as well.
Having Willie come in this year, from what I've heard about him, he's helped many guys around the League that he's played with become better defensive players. He's really simplified the D-zone for them. He's a huge addition to our team and certainly a huge addition to the way we're going to play this year." For all 30 in 30 stories go to NHL.com/30in30stories and for the full 30 in 30 schedule visit
Gudbranson is excited about the future of the Panthers' defensive corps. "It's shaping up to be a real force," Gudbranson said after signing his new contract. "I think a great part is we're all good skaters. We're all going to be fast, we're going to be able to move the puck well and we bring some size as well.
Having Willie come in this year, from what I've heard about him, he's helped many guys around the League that he's played with become better defensive players. He's really simplified the D-zone for them. He's a huge addition to our team and certainly a huge addition to the way we're going to play this year." For all 30 in 30 stories go to NHL.com/30in30stories and for the full 30 in 30 schedule visit
"He's got so much ability," Tallon said after Kulikov was re-signed.
"He's got so much ability," Tallon said after Kulikov was re-signed. "It's time for him now to make a statement and be a leader on our team. He's got all the ability in the world. It's now just a matter of channeling it in the right direction and doing it consistently. He's still a young guy and he's got tremendous ability. They're hard to find, those guys."
Kulikov averaged more than 20 minutes of ice time each of the past three seasons, although his 2013-14 campaign was marked by the first healthy scratch of his career after a series of bad turnovers over a stretch of a few games.
Gudbranson, the third pick in 2010, averaged 17:59 in his third season but also was inconsistent. He now has played 169 NHL games, meaning that going by Tallon's benchmark he won't reach his full potential until the 2015-16 season.
Erik Gudbranson ERIK GUDBRANSON DEFENSE - FLA GOALS: 3 | ASST: 6 | PTS: 9 SOG: 92 | +/-: -7
Either way, Tallon has high hopes for him and thinks Gudbranson, like the rest of his defensemen, will benefit from the presence of Roberto Luongo in net from the start of the season.
"Now he's going to have a little more support," Tallon said during the Panthers development camp. "Obviously, goaltending is a big plus. Having good goaltending allows a young defenseman to make a mistake or two without really worrying about it because they can cover up for that. It's all positive, it's all good. [Gudbranson has] got great leadership qualities, his intangibles, the toughness, mean and skilled and all those things. Plus, he has the passion."
Kulikov averaged more than 20 minutes of ice time each of the past three seasons, although his 2013-14 campaign was marked by the first healthy scratch of his career after a series of bad turnovers over a stretch of a few games.
Gudbranson, the third pick in 2010, averaged 17:59 in his third season but also was inconsistent. He now has played 169 NHL games, meaning that going by Tallon's benchmark he won't reach his full potential until the 2015-16 season.
Erik Gudbranson ERIK GUDBRANSON DEFENSE - FLA GOALS: 3 | ASST: 6 | PTS: 9 SOG: 92 | +/-: -7
Either way, Tallon has high hopes for him and thinks Gudbranson, like the rest of his defensemen, will benefit from the presence of Roberto Luongo in net from the start of the season.
"Now he's going to have a little more support," Tallon said during the Panthers development camp. "Obviously, goaltending is a big plus. Having good goaltending allows a young defenseman to make a mistake or two without really worrying about it because they can cover up for that. It's all positive, it's all good. [Gudbranson has] got great leadership qualities, his intangibles, the toughness, mean and skilled and all those things. Plus, he has the passion."
Panthers need Kulikov, Gudbranson to take next step
Because of their great promise and their unique abilities, forwards Aleksander Barkov, Nick Bjugstad and Jonathan Huberdeau have become focal points for the Florida Panthers. They're also among the biggest reasons for optimism for a fan base that has had to constantly re-learn the meaning of patience.
But there are a couple of other first-round picks from past years upon whom the Panthers will rely heavily in the upcoming season, two players at the core of Florida's youth movement on defense.
Dmitry Kulikov was the last Panthers first-round pick before Dale Tallon became the team's general manager, while Erik Gudbranson was Tallon's first No. 1 pick. Each was a restricted free agent this summer before being re-signed, Kulikov to a three-year contract and Gudbranson to a two-year contract. As of mid-August, six of the eight defensemen on the Panthers roster were 24 or younger, including Aaron Ekblad, the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NHL Draft. The two exceptions were Willie Mitchell, 37, and Brian Campbell, 35.
Though Ekblad very well might make the Panthers' opening-night roster, Kulikov and Gudbranson have the most NHL experience of the young defensemen and therefore face the biggest expectations.
That's especially true for Kulikov, who despite being only 23 already has played in 313 career games, above the 300-game threshold Tallon always mentions as the mark when NHL defensemen fully develop their game.
Dmitry Kulikov was the last Panthers first-round pick before Dale Tallon became the team's general manager, while Erik Gudbranson was Tallon's first No. 1 pick. Each was a restricted free agent this summer before being re-signed, Kulikov to a three-year contract and Gudbranson to a two-year contract. As of mid-August, six of the eight defensemen on the Panthers roster were 24 or younger, including Aaron Ekblad, the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NHL Draft. The two exceptions were Willie Mitchell, 37, and Brian Campbell, 35.
Though Ekblad very well might make the Panthers' opening-night roster, Kulikov and Gudbranson have the most NHL experience of the young defensemen and therefore face the biggest expectations.
That's especially true for Kulikov, who despite being only 23 already has played in 313 career games, above the 300-game threshold Tallon always mentions as the mark when NHL defensemen fully develop their game.
The Panthers already have a lot of top prospects
Ultimately, though, the Panthers figure to once again have so much young talent on their roster that they'll only go as far as those promising players can take them.
Nick Bjugstad led the team in scoring as a rookie last season (albeit with 38 points); Jonathan Huberdeau will be looking to bounce back after he followed his Calder-winning 2013 season with a disappointing sophomore effort; and 2013 second pick Aleksander Barkov showed last season an all-around game more befitting a 30-year-old veteran than an 18-year-old rookie.
Those three are key players for the Panthers, as are young defensemen Dmitry Kulikov, Erik Gudbranson and maybe even Ekblad. The Panthers have had one of the top two picks each of the past two drafts, which might hold some appeal next year when much-ballyhooed prospects Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel will be available for the taking in the 2015 NHL Draft, scheduled for BB&T Center.
The Panthers already have a lot of top prospects. Tallon is anxious to see them come together and blend in with the new veterans. "I'm excited," he said. "It's a great opportunity for all of us. It's a much better group. I think it's going to be a fun year for us."
Nick Bjugstad led the team in scoring as a rookie last season (albeit with 38 points); Jonathan Huberdeau will be looking to bounce back after he followed his Calder-winning 2013 season with a disappointing sophomore effort; and 2013 second pick Aleksander Barkov showed last season an all-around game more befitting a 30-year-old veteran than an 18-year-old rookie.
Those three are key players for the Panthers, as are young defensemen Dmitry Kulikov, Erik Gudbranson and maybe even Ekblad. The Panthers have had one of the top two picks each of the past two drafts, which might hold some appeal next year when much-ballyhooed prospects Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel will be available for the taking in the 2015 NHL Draft, scheduled for BB&T Center.
The Panthers already have a lot of top prospects. Tallon is anxious to see them come together and blend in with the new veterans. "I'm excited," he said. "It's a great opportunity for all of us. It's a much better group. I think it's going to be a fun year for us."
In his 14 games with the Panthers last season
"We've added so much character," Tallon said. "We brought in some Stanley Cup champion guys that are excited about coming to Florida and not only being successful in their own right, but also helping our young guys develop quickly. Obviously it's going to take a little time with new coaching and a lot of new faces. It's going to take a little time to jell, but I like the direction we're headed."
Perhaps the most significant personnel change from the start of last season was goalie Roberto Luongo, who was brought back for a second stint with the Panthers in a trade with the Vancouver Canucks in March.
In his 14 games with the Panthers last season, Luongo had an impressive .924 save percentage, a figure that actually tops his career mark of .919. Tallon is hesitant to pinpoint how many victories Luongo's presence could mean, but he's quick to say the three-time All-Star goalie should make everybody around him better.
"[His presence] means that our players will have a lot more confidence out front that they know they're going to have solid goaltending, especially our young guys," Tallon said. "They'll know that mistakes will be covered up by his play."
In his 14 games with the Panthers last season, Luongo had an impressive .924 save percentage, a figure that actually tops his career mark of .919. Tallon is hesitant to pinpoint how many victories Luongo's presence could mean, but he's quick to say the three-time All-Star goalie should make everybody around him better.
"[His presence] means that our players will have a lot more confidence out front that they know they're going to have solid goaltending, especially our young guys," Tallon said. "They'll know that mistakes will be covered up by his play."
When free agency began three days after the conclusion of the draft
Gallant not only is looking for the same kind of turnaround he saw in Montreal, he wants the Panthers to play the same style of hockey.
"We've got a lot of skill, we've got a lot of speed, and I always look back at Montreal and they were a team that played fast hockey," Gallant told floridapanthers.com. "And we always used the (term) 'fast hockey.' It's about being first on pucks.
It doesn't have to be a physical brand where you're running people over all the time, it's about being first on pucks, paying a price to win those one-on-one battles, and that's the way we want to play. We want to be fast hockey out there."
Shortly after hiring Gallant, who coached the Columbus Blue Jackets for parts of three seasons (2003-04 to 2006-07), the Panthers used the first pick in the 2014 NHL Draft on Ontario Hockey League defenseman Aaron Ekblad, and he will be given every chance in training camp to make the NHL roster. When free agency began three days after the conclusion of the draft, Tallon was busy. More than anything, he stocked up on veterans with championship pedigree.
PANTHERS' OFFSEASON OUTLOOK Of the six free agents signed on July 1, three have won the Stanley Cup twice. Center Dave Bolland won with the Chicago Blackhawks; defenseman Willie Mitchell won with the Los Angeles Kings; and rugged forward Shawn Thornton won the Stanley Cup once with the Anaheim Ducks and again with the Boston Bruins.
It doesn't have to be a physical brand where you're running people over all the time, it's about being first on pucks, paying a price to win those one-on-one battles, and that's the way we want to play. We want to be fast hockey out there."
Shortly after hiring Gallant, who coached the Columbus Blue Jackets for parts of three seasons (2003-04 to 2006-07), the Panthers used the first pick in the 2014 NHL Draft on Ontario Hockey League defenseman Aaron Ekblad, and he will be given every chance in training camp to make the NHL roster. When free agency began three days after the conclusion of the draft, Tallon was busy. More than anything, he stocked up on veterans with championship pedigree.
PANTHERS' OFFSEASON OUTLOOK Of the six free agents signed on July 1, three have won the Stanley Cup twice. Center Dave Bolland won with the Chicago Blackhawks; defenseman Willie Mitchell won with the Los Angeles Kings; and rugged forward Shawn Thornton won the Stanley Cup once with the Anaheim Ducks and again with the Boston Bruins.
With Gallant at helm, Panthers eye quick turnaround
The Florida Panthers' blueprint of building around their talented high draft picks hasn't changed. What general manager Dale Tallon is hoping is the addition of a coach with NHL experience and veterans who have won the Stanley Cup can get his team out of a two-year funk.
Florida finished last and next-to-last in the overall standings the past two seasons, but Tallon is thinking about the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2014-15. "My goal is to compete for a playoff spot all the way right to the bitter end," Tallon said. "That's what we're looking to do. I think if everybody has years that live up to their potential and the players develop and come together as a team and with our new coach, our goaltending and another year of experience for our younger guys, I think this team has got the ability if we stay healthy to compete for a spot."
After finishing 27 points away from the last playoff spot last season, it might seem unrealistic to think the Panthers have a chance to return to the postseason for only the second time since 2000. But after his hiring in June, new coach Gerard Gallant compared the situation in Florida to what he saw in Montreal after becoming an assistant coach there in 2012. The Canadiens missed the playoffs in 2011-12, were back in the postseason the following year and last season made it all the way to the Eastern Conference Final.
Florida finished last and next-to-last in the overall standings the past two seasons, but Tallon is thinking about the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2014-15. "My goal is to compete for a playoff spot all the way right to the bitter end," Tallon said. "That's what we're looking to do. I think if everybody has years that live up to their potential and the players develop and come together as a team and with our new coach, our goaltending and another year of experience for our younger guys, I think this team has got the ability if we stay healthy to compete for a spot."
After finishing 27 points away from the last playoff spot last season, it might seem unrealistic to think the Panthers have a chance to return to the postseason for only the second time since 2000. But after his hiring in June, new coach Gerard Gallant compared the situation in Florida to what he saw in Montreal after becoming an assistant coach there in 2012. The Canadiens missed the playoffs in 2011-12, were back in the postseason the following year and last season made it all the way to the Eastern Conference Final.
Brittain (6-1, 216) will likely spend this season in San Antonio,
10. Sam Brittain, G
How acquired: 4th round (No. 92), 2010 draft
Last season: 39 GP, 19-14-6, 2.22 GAA, .929 save percentage, University of Denver, NCHC
Brittain (6-1, 216) will likely spend this season in San Antonio, where he'll continue his development. He led Denver to the inaugural National Collegiate Hockey Conference championship and was named 2014 NCHC Goalie of the Year after posting five shutouts as a senior.
Brittain, 22, was also one of five finalists for the Mike Richter Award, given to the goalie who best displays outstanding skill on the ice, along with academic achievement, sportsmanship and community service. The Calgary native played in 97 games for Denver and finished 51-34-11 with seven shutouts. "Sam is driven and a student of the game," Luce said. "He's a guy who will have to battle in the American Hockey League to begin his professional career, but he's on that path and, as a goalie, will take longer to get there. We like his attitude and the fact he's had success wherever he's been. His work ethic is impeccable and he wants to be an NHL player. How quickly he gets there is entirely up to him." Projected NHL arrival: 2016-17
Brittain, 22, was also one of five finalists for the Mike Richter Award, given to the goalie who best displays outstanding skill on the ice, along with academic achievement, sportsmanship and community service. The Calgary native played in 97 games for Denver and finished 51-34-11 with seven shutouts. "Sam is driven and a student of the game," Luce said. "He's a guy who will have to battle in the American Hockey League to begin his professional career, but he's on that path and, as a goalie, will take longer to get there. We like his attitude and the fact he's had success wherever he's been. His work ethic is impeccable and he wants to be an NHL player. How quickly he gets there is entirely up to him." Projected NHL arrival: 2016-17
Kosov (6-3, 205) was limited to less than 10 minutes a game playing a checking
9. Yaroslav Kosov, RW
How acquired: 5th round (No. 124), 2011 draft
Last season: 32 GP, 2-2-4, Metallurg Magnitogorsk, KHL
Kosov (6-3, 205) was limited to less than 10 minutes a game playing a checking and defensive role in the Kontinental Hockey League last season, which probably led to his paltry offensive numbers.
It's still to be determined where the 21-year-old will play in 2014-15 but the scouting staff believes Kosov has plenty of NHL upside. Luce feels when Kosov finally does decide to play in North America, he will open plenty of eyes with his style of game. "He's a big, responsible player that can play with skill, but is also tough to contain down low because of his size," Luce said. "We've been seeking for that thick, skilled wing in the organization and thought we would roll the dice and select Kosov in the fifth round a few years ago. He's been under the radar for us, but we project he could develop into a second- or third-line type player with the proper training and development." Projected NHL arrival: 2015-16
It's still to be determined where the 21-year-old will play in 2014-15 but the scouting staff believes Kosov has plenty of NHL upside. Luce feels when Kosov finally does decide to play in North America, he will open plenty of eyes with his style of game. "He's a big, responsible player that can play with skill, but is also tough to contain down low because of his size," Luce said. "We've been seeking for that thick, skilled wing in the organization and thought we would roll the dice and select Kosov in the fifth round a few years ago. He's been under the radar for us, but we project he could develop into a second- or third-line type player with the proper training and development." Projected NHL arrival: 2015-16
How acquired: 2nd round (No. 32), 2014 draft
How acquired: 2nd round (No. 32), 2014 draft
Last season: 59 GP, 24-40-64, Brandon, WHL
The 5-10, 190-pound right-shot forward is a prototypical agitator with some offensive pop to his game.
He performs with passion and grit, and can play wing and center, although Luce feels he is much more effective as a wing. Panthers fans will learn to love Hawryluk once he becomes an established player in the NHL. Hawryluk, 18, has 42 goals, 107 points and 90 penalty minutes in 120 career games in the Western Hockey League spanning two seasons. He scored once to help lead Canada to a gold medal at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Cup.
"His compete level is second to none and he'll be that guy to throw people off their game, but at the same time be able to produce offense," Luce said. "We view him as a complementary forward who could fit in on any line on the depth chart; he has enough skill to be a top six and enough tenacity to sort of be in that bottom half as well. He leads by example and wears his emotions on his sleeve." Projected NHL arrival: 2017-18
8. MacKenzie Weegar, D How acquired: 7th round (No. 206), 2013 draft Last season: 61 GP, 12-47-59, Halifax, QMJHL
Weegar (5-11, 207), 20, has 20 goals and 103 points in 123 games spanning two seasons in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League with the Mooseheads. He ranked fourth in scoring among all defensemen in the league last season and contributed six power-play goals. He will likely begin his first pro season in San Antonio in 2014-15 and be re-evaluated after the season.
"He has ice in his veins with the puck," Luce said. "He's confident in his offensive abilities and although not strong in stature, has a strong base and is able to play against bigger forwards down low from a strength point of view. He's a guy we feel could eventually be our strong offensive transitional guy that will work the power play and put up some points at the NHL level."
He performs with passion and grit, and can play wing and center, although Luce feels he is much more effective as a wing. Panthers fans will learn to love Hawryluk once he becomes an established player in the NHL. Hawryluk, 18, has 42 goals, 107 points and 90 penalty minutes in 120 career games in the Western Hockey League spanning two seasons. He scored once to help lead Canada to a gold medal at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Cup.
"His compete level is second to none and he'll be that guy to throw people off their game, but at the same time be able to produce offense," Luce said. "We view him as a complementary forward who could fit in on any line on the depth chart; he has enough skill to be a top six and enough tenacity to sort of be in that bottom half as well. He leads by example and wears his emotions on his sleeve." Projected NHL arrival: 2017-18
8. MacKenzie Weegar, D How acquired: 7th round (No. 206), 2013 draft Last season: 61 GP, 12-47-59, Halifax, QMJHL
Weegar (5-11, 207), 20, has 20 goals and 103 points in 123 games spanning two seasons in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League with the Mooseheads. He ranked fourth in scoring among all defensemen in the league last season and contributed six power-play goals. He will likely begin his first pro season in San Antonio in 2014-15 and be re-evaluated after the season.
"He has ice in his veins with the puck," Luce said. "He's confident in his offensive abilities and although not strong in stature, has a strong base and is able to play against bigger forwards down low from a strength point of view. He's a guy we feel could eventually be our strong offensive transitional guy that will work the power play and put up some points at the NHL level."
Last season: 35 GP, 5-8-13, Boston College, Hockey East
How acquired: 2nd round (No. 31), 2013 draft
Last season: 35 GP, 5-8-13, Boston College, Hockey East
After three seasons with the Waterloo Black Hawks in the United States Hockey League, McCoshen (6-3, 205) closed out a solid freshman season with the Eagles. He scored the first goal of the season for Boston College in his first collegiate game at Michigan on Oct.
10. He earned rookie of the week honors for his game winning goal against the University of Massachusetts-Lowell during the NCAA tournament to propel his team into the Frozen Four. McCoshen, 18, also represented the United States at the 2014 WJC.
"Ian is one of those guys where less is more; he plays a very steady, almost mistake-free game and has an underrated, secondary offensive ability," Luce said. "He's quietly effective in his role and he understands what he needs to do as a player moving forward, and he'll play that role." Projected NHL arrival: 2017-18
6. Jonathan Racine, D How acquired: 3rd round (No. 87), 2011 draft Last season: 51 GP, 0-6-0, San Antonio, AHL; 1 GP, 0-0-0, Florida, NHL The 6-foot-1, 181-pound stay-at-home defenseman received glowing reviews at the team's development camp in July. Racine, 21, trained hard in the summer and will be one of those young blueliners looking to take a position with his strong positional play.
While he won't quarterback a power play or contribute huge offensive numbers, he's one who prides himself on shutting down the best players on the opposing team.
"Jonathan is a shutdown defender, plain and simple," Luce said. "He'll play against the other team's top line, and he played that role in junior [in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League]. He knows his identity and plays it well. He plays with tenacity, and we really feel we got a good value pick in the third round with Jon."
10. He earned rookie of the week honors for his game winning goal against the University of Massachusetts-Lowell during the NCAA tournament to propel his team into the Frozen Four. McCoshen, 18, also represented the United States at the 2014 WJC.
"Ian is one of those guys where less is more; he plays a very steady, almost mistake-free game and has an underrated, secondary offensive ability," Luce said. "He's quietly effective in his role and he understands what he needs to do as a player moving forward, and he'll play that role." Projected NHL arrival: 2017-18
6. Jonathan Racine, D How acquired: 3rd round (No. 87), 2011 draft Last season: 51 GP, 0-6-0, San Antonio, AHL; 1 GP, 0-0-0, Florida, NHL The 6-foot-1, 181-pound stay-at-home defenseman received glowing reviews at the team's development camp in July. Racine, 21, trained hard in the summer and will be one of those young blueliners looking to take a position with his strong positional play.
While he won't quarterback a power play or contribute huge offensive numbers, he's one who prides himself on shutting down the best players on the opposing team.
"Jonathan is a shutdown defender, plain and simple," Luce said. "He'll play against the other team's top line, and he played that role in junior [in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League]. He knows his identity and plays it well. He plays with tenacity, and we really feel we got a good value pick in the third round with Jon."
How acquired: 3rd round (No. 64), 2011 draft
How acquired: 3rd round (No. 64), 2011 draft
Last season: 55 GP, 16-26-42, San Antonio, AHL; 20 GP, 5-3-8, Florida, NHL
Trocheck, 21, closed out a productive rookie season in the American Hockey League and did plenty of work in the offseason. The 5-10, 182-pound center is determined to push for a position out of training camp in September.
He exhibits plenty of grit, is willing to battle, is good in the faceoff circle, and has an ability to make players around him even better. The Pittsburgh native usually puts himself in good shooting position on the power play, plays a two-way game and provides much energy.
"Vinny is a player, a hockey player who is a highly competitive guy,'' Luce said. "He leads by example and doesn't take no for an answer when it comes to his production. He feels he can produce at any level. His drive combined with his high skill level bodes well for his future."
Projected NHL arrival: 2015-16 4. Rocco Grimaldi, C How acquired: 2nd round (No. 33), 2011 draft
Last season: 42 GP, 17-22-39, University of North Dakota, NCHC
Grimaldi, 21, left North Dakota with two years of eligibility remaining to sign a three-year, entry-level contract with the Panthers in May. A knee injury in his fourth game as a freshman in 2011-12 forced a redshirt season.
It wasn't too much of a surprise he decided to turn pro since Grimaldi has always been one to challenge himself. He finished with 31 goals, 77 points and a plus-22 rating in 86 NCAA games and feels ready for next level. The 5-6, 172-pound Grimaldi, MVP of the NCAA Cincinnati Regional, helped the Sioux reach the Frozen Four with a 2-1 win over Ferris State in double overtime. He'll likely make his pro debut with San Antonio this season unless he impresses the coaching staff enough to keep him in Sunrise for an extended stay.
"He's a driven hockey player and driven person," Luce said. "I think he's going to push some of our wingers with the big team just because he brings that dynamic dimension.
He's effective on the power play, and that's an area we can improve on. Rocco has learned to become an unselfish player with the puck, and that's going to allow his transition to the NHL come faster than normal."
He exhibits plenty of grit, is willing to battle, is good in the faceoff circle, and has an ability to make players around him even better. The Pittsburgh native usually puts himself in good shooting position on the power play, plays a two-way game and provides much energy.
"Vinny is a player, a hockey player who is a highly competitive guy,'' Luce said. "He leads by example and doesn't take no for an answer when it comes to his production. He feels he can produce at any level. His drive combined with his high skill level bodes well for his future."
Projected NHL arrival: 2015-16 4. Rocco Grimaldi, C How acquired: 2nd round (No. 33), 2011 draft
Last season: 42 GP, 17-22-39, University of North Dakota, NCHC
Grimaldi, 21, left North Dakota with two years of eligibility remaining to sign a three-year, entry-level contract with the Panthers in May. A knee injury in his fourth game as a freshman in 2011-12 forced a redshirt season.
It wasn't too much of a surprise he decided to turn pro since Grimaldi has always been one to challenge himself. He finished with 31 goals, 77 points and a plus-22 rating in 86 NCAA games and feels ready for next level. The 5-6, 172-pound Grimaldi, MVP of the NCAA Cincinnati Regional, helped the Sioux reach the Frozen Four with a 2-1 win over Ferris State in double overtime. He'll likely make his pro debut with San Antonio this season unless he impresses the coaching staff enough to keep him in Sunrise for an extended stay.
"He's a driven hockey player and driven person," Luce said. "I think he's going to push some of our wingers with the big team just because he brings that dynamic dimension.
He's effective on the power play, and that's an area we can improve on. Rocco has learned to become an unselfish player with the puck, and that's going to allow his transition to the NHL come faster than normal."
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