Panthers Mid Season Report
The Good:
Scoring
Scoring has not been an issue for the Panthers, who currently lead the NHL in goals. Michael Frolik leads the way with 22, good for t-7th in the league. Frolik has developed into a bonafide sniper, developing chemistry with fellow countryman Tomas Plekanec over the last few seasons.
Young Talent
Carl-Johan Albelin has silenced the doubters, anchoring the team's second line while quickly developing an elite defensive game. Scouts have seen him soar to the top of their lists and there is now little doubt he will be a perennial top-6 center in the NHL for years to come. Other notable youngsters include Zach Bogosian, who seems to be having a bit of a slump after losing last year's partner, Kimmo Timonen, to the 2nd pair. Vladimir Rzzicka is also quietly developing into solid scoring depth.
The Bad:
Special Teams
Somebody hire a new special teams coach...All this talent, and yet the Panthers are a middle of the pack team, at best, on the powerplay, while our penalty kill has downright lost us games at times. With so many young players added to the roster so quickly, the team lacks critical experience in the finer points of the game.
The Ugly:
Future Issues
The Panthers have glaring age issues on defense and in net. Vokoun, Mason, Timonen, and Visnovsky are all in the twilight of their careers. How will Florida replace the elite talent that will surely be lost in the coming years? Only time will tell...