Florida Panthers - Sun-Sentinel

Panthers Blog has new address

Harvey Fialkov — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 17:58:12 GMT

The Panthers Blog has moved. Same blog, different address. That’s all.

>>Click here<< to bookmark the new homepage for all the news you found here on the original site. This page won’t disappear,but this will just be the last post you’ll find.

See you on the other side.

Unlike NHL, Panthers blog on the move

Harvey Fialkov — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 23:07:37 GMT

While the NHL season is still in limbo my Panthers blog is on the move. Today we’re moving to a new address. Click here http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/florida-panthers/panthers-blog/ to bookmark the new homepage for all the latest Panther’s news. This page won’t disappear, but this will just be the last post you’ll find. See you on the other side. HF

Panthers visit hospital; Weiss wants to stay with team

Harvey Fialkov — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 21:19:01 GMT

The Panthers may not be dishing out assists during the owner’s-forced lockout but they doled out smiles and autographs to sick youngsters at the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Wednesday afternoon.
Sporting their NHLPA sweatshirts with their twitter hashmark #theplayers, Mike Weaver, Stephen Weiss, Peter Mueller and free agent Marco Sturm expressed optimism and frustration about the ongoing CBA impasse.
“You practice every day hoping the CBA’s going to get done and it hasn’t,’’ said Weaver, the Panthers union representative. “We have free time so we came together on our own to do a hospital visit to give back to the public.’’
There were some touching moments but none cooler than meeting 18-year-old Carissa Sandrin of Lauderhill, whose clearly as tough as any hockey player. Suffering from incurable cystic fibrosis since birth, Sandrin plays softball and flag football and would play hockey if she could find some ice and be able to hit someone with a stick, she joked. Amaad Uddin, 8, said his favorite sport is cricket, the native sport of his homeland in Pakistan, but for now is trying to get his body stronger to fight off a muscular disorder. The players, who did this on their own time and not as part of their contractual obligations that they do throughout the season, posed for pictures, signed autographs and tried to sell their sport to children who had never seen a game before. Mekhi Thompson was the spunkiest patient as the five-year-old kidded with the players despite coming off a recent bone marrow transplant.
Sturm said he’ll probably go to Germany to play with former teammate Marcel Goc, but he was hoping the lockout would be over by now and wanted to spend more time with his family. He’s in search of a job. Mueller, the most recent Panther, was great with the kids and quite anxious to begin his Panthers career. Weiss said he wants to play in Europe but because he’s a free agent after this season he doesn’t want to risk incurring an injury so he’s staying put. Several of his teammates, such as Sean Bergenheim (groin) and Tomas Kopecky (shoulder) have already returned from their European clubs because of injury. Kopecky is back skating while Bergenheim is awaiting his doctor’s opinion.
“I’m still optimistic,” Weiss said of the season starting soon. “I think they’d like to have more games than [48 in 1995], at least in the 50s. I’ll take anything right now, 20, 30, whatever we can get.
“I do want to play. I don’t like sitting out. It’s always better to be playing in a competitive environment, but at the same time, not having a contract next year is something telling me to stay here and be a little careful. I don’t want to go over there and get hurt and all of a sudden the season starts up here and I’m not part of it. That wouldn’t be good for myself personally or the team.”
Weiss said the team began negotiations in the summer but they, “didn’t go anywhere.” He’d rather talk contract after the season to avoid any distractions.
“It’s always easier not trying to force anything. For me personally it bothers me during the season. I’ve been through it before, contract years. It’s just a weird feeling and is always easier to play when your mind is clear and you have nothing to worry about.”
Weiss has repeatedly made it clear that he wants to remain with the Panthers, especially after reaching the playoffs for the first time in his career last year.
“It was really a fun year to break through and get a taste of the playoffs and then we’re all hungry to come back and try to reprove ourselves all over again that it wasn’t a fluke and that we can do it again. I’m really looking forward to this season whenever we get back on the ice with the group we have because it was fun.”

Another Panther defects to Europe

Harvey Fialkov — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 16:57:20 GMT

As the NHL owners and players association continue to hold the sport for ransom another Panthers player opted to play for his hometown team as veteran defenseman Filip Kuba – who was signed in the offseason to pick up the slack left by Jason Garrison’s exodus – signed with Tipsport Extraliga in the Czech Republic.
By now you know that while the owners gave some ground in the ‘make whole’ contract fight over the weekend they wouldn’t budge on other matters such as giving players free agency right after five years instead of six etc… Talks are expected to continue in Toronto this week as several of the parties are attending tonight’s Hall of Fame induction ceremonies that include former Panthers great Pavel Bure.

Panthers coach Kevin Dineen interview and video

Harvey Fialkov — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 15:33:56 GMT

I caught up with Panthers coach Kevin Dineen Wednesday evening at Saveology.com Iceplex where he was conducting a hockey clinic (along with former Panther and TV analyst Billy Lindsay) and complimentary meals for children from local youth organizations.
Dineen isn’t allowed to discuss the lockout in any detail. Nor is he allowed to talk about players on his roster, regarding injuries, while they’re being locked out. He was with his wife and two of his four children, Declan, 9, and Williams, 11. All had their skates on for the clinic.

Here’s the q & a.

Dineen on training camp when and if it happens.
It condenses everything. We’ve worked on different scenarios starting as if we’re ready to go as if training camp was going to happen and then obvioulsy we built in a short-term area and I think over the last couple of weeks we started to tweak that, knowing that when things get resolved things are going to happen very quickly. Our testing will certainly change compared to what we usually do at the beginning of the year. It’ll be based on the length of training camp and when we can get start fine-tuning things from there.

Dineen on going through another work stoppage
I’ve been through think this is my fourth collective bargaining negotiation so for me I would echo the comments that I’ve seen from many of the older players, I’m not hanging on every article or every meeting or every press conference. I’ve played that game before where at times you get excited, other times you get down so I basically stepped back and taken control of what we can which is making sure we’re prepared to go. As far as riding the emotional roller coaster I’ve done that before so I’ve stayed away from that.
Dineen’s message to frustrated fans
I would certainly embrace that because I think there’s some emotion there. Nothing worse than ambivalence where somebody’s just, ‘Whatever, hockey’s gone, we don’t care about it anymore.’ That’s your concern and I think when you find that people do care and they’re frustrated, angry that they miss it, we feel that and know that this is an uncomfortable time for everybody involved and we hope that they have long-term memories and remember how the last year went.
Dineen, an avid fisherman, has been fine-tuning his skills by winning two tournaments in the Keys. He’s been hanging out with fellow fisherman, baseball great Wade Boggs.
I think they’re all surprised that I’m there. I spent time with Wade Boggs over the last couple of months and we’ve had conversations about Don Fehr, the things that he’s done for MLB Player’s Association, just that we’ve both been through these things before and I think they’re [other fishermen] are surprised and I hope that they’re happy I’m still around to participate in those events and am very fortunate to get down there.
Dinnen loves working with kids especially on the ice
This is not something I ever get the opportunities to do so to find these little windows to enjoy maybe a passion, you take advantage of it but a night like tonight is more enjoyable for me to get out here and spend time with kids like that, including my family, I think this is a great evening for us.
Is he able to keep up with his locked out players?
Not at all.
How about Kris Versteeg, who is rehabbing his hip and the only player on team allowed to receive payment and medical assistance?
Yeah, I’d refer that to GM Dale [Tallon] as well.
Enjoying the family time?
We’ve had a great Halloween; we had some neighbors over and the kids didn’t cheat themselves by hitting a lot of houses. We’ve enjoyed their athletics and spend some time on the ice with different teams. Soccer practice with my youngest daughter and get a chance to explore South Florida a little bit which we hadn’t really done before and realize we’re very fortunate to be down here.
I asked his lovely wife Annie if she was tired of him being around yet?
I’m happy to have another driver. Taking them every morning down here four days a week they skate before school. I do [want him home for Thanksgiving]. It’s worked out well, he’s keeping busy with his little trips and coming down here to his office.
Has he done any honey-dos around the house?
No.
I asked Dineen about his visit to watch the San Antonino Rampage and some of his future players
Took in a couple of games in Chicago. The team’s well put together, I think it’s got a good mixture of our youth. It’s a really important time because we talk so much about our players and the youth we have high expectations for and here they are now they’re professionals and we’re extremely excited about them. It’s still very early starting their development and maturation into NHL players. It’s not always the easiest, you go down and see a couple of games to get too excited or too frustrated, one way emotion or another. They’re still young guys but it’s a really exciting, important time for that team so it’s good to get involved and watch some hockey.
I asked if he saw Jonathan Huberdeau dominate the All-Star game against the Russians on Wednesday?
No I didn’t [see it]. Shame on me because afterwards I heard it was on NHL Network and what I really need to do is get on the internet and check that. But I’m certainly keeping tabs on him. He understands the spotlight is some times brighter than others, he certainly didn’t shy away from that last night and it certainly bodes bright things for his future.
He’s bumped into some of his players when they were practicing at Saveology (they’re at Glacier Ice Arena in Pompano these days) and at some of their children’s games but other than some hellos he’s not allowed to interact with them.
We’ll see them around the rink and get our hellos in and check to see how they’re doing. Other than that, they found ice over at Glacier and I understand they’re doing a good job getting some skates in.
I asked if he’s itching to get back?
Yeah, it comes in waves, some days you get really excited and other days, no one will be happier than the 800 girls and women who are married, or engaged or girl friends of players and staff to get those guys out of the house and on the ice.

Panthers already hit by injuries

Harvey Fialkov — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 21:17:48 GMT

The lockout has taken its toll on the Panthers bank accounts and bodies, as several players have been injured before or during the 54-day work stoppage.
Blossoming defenseman Erik Gudbranson sustained a serious shoulder injury that required surgery in late August.
Apparently, the injury occurred in a non-training incident but no details have been released. The lockout actually was good for Gudbranson as he would’ve missed the first two months while rehabilitating his shoulder.
Forward Sean Bergenheim, who opted to play for his hometown team in Finland, lasted two games before returning to South Florida with what is believed to be a re-aggravation of a groin injury that kept him out of several games last season.
Bergenheim, one of several key free agents signed by General Manager Dale Tallon last summer, had 17 goals and 23 points in 62 games, but excelled in the playoff series with the Devils, notching a team-high six points despite playing with a fractured left foot in Game 7.
Also, forward Tomas Kopecky, a co-captain who had 32 points in his first season with the Panthers, reportedly sustained a shoulder injury after playing just four games for HK Dukla Trencin of the Slovakia hockey league and is back in SoFla.
Center Marcel Goc, a key member of the Panthers penalty kill last season and one of their best faceoff players, has been playing for Adler Mannheim in his native Germany, but he has missed the last three games for undisclosed reasons. He sustained a very serious concussion in his first season with Florida.
The protracted lockout also helped forward Kris Versteeg heal his surgically repaired hip. Versteeg is the only Panther who was permitted to use their training facility and medical staff at Saveology.com Iceplex because he sustained his injury during the season and was placed on the injured list. Versteeg, who notched a career-high 23 goals and 54 points in 71 games, also received his first month’s paycheck.
Unsigned defenseman Dmitry Kulikov, who’s playing for his former team in Russia, Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, will probably stay in Moscow until he gets a new deal.
Forward Mike Santorelli, who cleared waivers in July, returned home recently after just two weeks playing for a second division Swedish club reportedly because of differences with management.
Santorelli, who had just nine goals after a 20-goal season the year before, cleared waivers in July and will have to battle to earn a roster spot despite being under contract for $1.6 million this season.
Forward Jack Skille is one of the few Americans playing in Europe, where he has five goals for Rosenberg’s IHK in Norway.

Lockout could be nearing a close as sides talk

Harvey Fialkov — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 19:53:20 GMT

From all accounts today’s afternoon meeting between the owner and players reps could mean either the start or end of the season. I’ll be talking to Panthers coach Kevin Dineen tonight and hopefully we can talk about the end of the lockout. If not, the discussion will be quite limited. I’d like to get an update on injury situations of Erik Gudbranson and Sean Bergenheim, as well as an update on Kris Versteeg’s hip rehab.

Here’s ESPN’s report on this week’s meetings and the issues they’re discussing.

Talks between the NHL and the players’ association have resumed, the third straight day the sides are meeting in an effort to end the lockout.

This is the 54th day of the lockout, and this week is considered critical for the hockey season to be saved.

Owners and players already have bargained for about 13 hours over two days this week at an undisclosed site in New York.

Wednesday’s bargaining session, which lasted almost six hours, included discussions on two key issues that have separated the two sides: revenue sharing and the league’s “Make Whole” provision to honor players’ existing contracts, a source told ESPNNewYork.com.

According to the NHLPA, there are seven players attending Thursday’s session: David Backes, Chris Campoli, Mathieu Darche, Ron Hainsey, Johan Hedberg, Manny Malhotra and Kevin Westgarth.

The two sides, which have met three times in the past five days, first tackled revenue sharing. Although the NHL repeatedly has downplayed the significance of the practice, the league spent more than three hours discussing the matter Wednesday.

The union wants to see an enhanced revenue-sharing system — one that would require lucrative clubs to help out struggling teams — as a fundamental part of the new collective bargaining agreement. In the league’s last offer, submitted last month, it offered $200 million, up from $150 million in its previous offer.

The more compelling issue facing the two sides, however, is the “Make Whole” provision.

Before last weekend’s clandestine session between NHLPA special counsel Steve Fehr and NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly, the two sides were divided on how the provision would work. The league originally proposed deferred payments that ultimately would reduce the players’ future share, whereas the union wanted the owners to bear the responsibility.

It is believed that the league has shown a willingness to bend on the “Make Whole” mechanism and absorb some of the financial commitment. It remains unclear, however, how much the league would be willing to shoulder with respect to the damage incurred because of the lockout.

Daly said that $720 million in revenue had been lost when the league was forced to cancel all regular-season games through Nov. 30, although he has not offered any new estimates since the NHL canceled the annual Winter Classic last week.

Time is becoming a bigger factor every day a deal isn’t reached. The lockout, which went into effect Sept. 16 after the previous CBA expired, already has forced the cancellation of 327 regular-season games — including the New Year’s Day outdoor Winter Classic in Michigan.

Whether any of the games that have been called off through Nov. 30 can be rescheduled if an agreement is made soon hasn’t been determined. But the NHL already has said that a full 82-game season won’t be played.

Tallon using time to heal, scout and plan for future

Harvey Fialkov — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 20:39:40 GMT

Panthers GM Dale Tallon did an interview recently with Hockeywriters.com. Not much news but he gave an update on Jonathan Huberdeau and Keaton Ellerby as well as Tallon’s to-do list for improvement if and when the season begins. By the way, I’m sure you all know the two sides are talking again, so that’s a step in the right direction.

Fresh off a knee replacement 9 weeks ago, Tallon unleashed his laundry list of tasks on the hosts as he works through the lockout. “… We’re going to go see San Antonio play some games, and then get some junior games in. It’s a really good draft year, I love to do that- it’s my favourite thing to do.”
When asked about Jonathan Huberdeau, the Panthers’ 2011 first round draft pick currently playing with the Saint John Sea Dogs, Tallon commented on his conditioning. “I just want to see him getting stronger physically… so he can withstand playing against men. This kid’s the real deal. He’s not only a great kid on the ice, but off the ice too.”

Tallon’s stress over the prospects Florida has compiled as quality was mentioned many times; “We’ve got a lot of great, young prospects we’re excited about, He’s [Huberdeau] one of the cornerstones.”

Jonathan Huberdeau hasn’t been struggling. In 17 games this season with the Sea Dogs, he has recorded 10 G and 12 A for 22 points. He’s doing just fine where he is.

What about Keaton Ellerby? The Panthers’ first pick in the 2007 draft hasn’t fully reached his potential. Tallon agreed. “Now it’s time for him to grab the bull by the horns. He has the ability, he’s a great skater, he’s got a good shot. I challenged him at the exit meeting that he needs to get prepared this off-season and get stronger mentally and physically.” He added; “I’m counting on him.”
So what do the Panther’s need? It’s no secret they need more than one line to get hot and get them over the hump. “One thing we did lack last year was offense. If we get a healthy Upshall, we added Peter Mueller, and Huberdeau in our line-up that’s a little more skill for us.” Until this comes to fruition, Tallon is looking around the league for other position players; “I like big centreman, I like skill down the middle. That’s what we’re looking to add. We have that in our system, it’s just a matter of them getting mature and experience.”

Tallon’s message to the players last year was simple; come back stronger so we can continue building what we started last year. What exactly did he say to his players? This: “… they have to make the sacrifices and believe in themselves, I think we have a really strong core now. We need to come back and finish the job instead of just getting to the playoffs.”
It is evident Tallon trusts his own instincts and believes his philosophy will bring the Panthers ultimate success. “I know what we’ve got coming; I know where we’re going. When it’s going to happen I’m not sure, but I’m confident it’s going to happen.”

NHL cancels Winter Classic and player’s union chief’s terse response

Harvey Fialkov — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 21:43:09 GMT

By now you know the NHL has blown off the Winter Classic at the University of Michigan between the Maple Leafs and Red Wings because of the ongoing lockout andCBA impasse. They claimed the event takes too much planning. Here’s the players union rep Donald Fehr’s response.

“The NHL’s decision to cancel the 2013 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic is unnecessary and unfortunate, as was the owners’ implementation of the lockout itself. The fact that the season has not started is a result of a unilateral decision by the owners; the players have always been ready to play while continuing to negotiate in good faith. We look forward to the league’s return to the bargaining table, so that the parties can find a way to end the lockout at the earliest possible date, and get the game back on the ice for the fans.”

Panthers website providers head to San Antonio for coverage of future Panthers

Harvey Fialkov — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 21:02:08 GMT

Team release

The Florida Panthers announced today that FloridaPanthers.com will be heading to their American Hockey League affiliate the San Antonio Rampage to cover the weekend’s home games against Grand Rapids (Friday, Nov. 2) and Oklahoma City (Sunday, Nov. 4).

The Rampage (2-4-1) open up a four-game home stand against Grand Rapids Friday night.

Upon logging onto FloridaPanthers.com fans will get to see game recaps, features and interviews with San Antonio coaches and players including G Jacob Markstrom, D Alex Petrovic, F Drew Shore and F Quinton Howden over the weekend and in the coming weeks. Behind the scenes images and videos will be posted on the website and through social media, giving fans a better look at the Panthers future.

The Panthers currently have the No. 1 rated group of prospects in the NHL according to ESPN and Hockey’s Future.

Fans interested in listening to Rampage games can log onto FloridaPanthers.com and click on the listen now link to be connected to the Rampage’s radio broadcast.

Panthers announcers to host broadcasting school for aspiring broadcasters

Harvey Fialkov — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 00:45:31 GMT

Panthers press release
SUNRISE, Fla. – Sunrise Sports & Entertainment announced today that the Florida Panthers will hold a Broadcasting School on Nov. 7 from 7-9pm at the BB&T Center. Limited space is available to children of season seat owners and sponsors ranging from ages 12 to 21.

“We are excited to have students learn about what goes into a typical game-day in the hockey broadcasting world,” said VP of Broadcasting and radio play-by-play commentator Randy Moller. “Students will be able to see those aspects of the business firsthand and engage in interactive experiences.”

Students will get many opportunities to learn about Panthers television, radio, social media, and game presentation. Students will be able to direct a “live” FS Florida segment with Steve Goldstein and Bill Lindsay as well as a “live” broadcast with Kevin Rogers from the WQAM radio booth. They will also get a tour of the production studio and equipment and be able to conduct an intermission interview with a former player. Finally, students will learn how NHL team websites are strategically created and how social media plays a huge part in fan communications and promotions.

The instructors will include Randy Moller (VP of Broadcasting/ radio play-by-play commentator), Steve Goldstein (Panthers TV play-by-play commentator), Bill Lindsay (Panthers TV analyst), Kevin Rogers (Panthers radio pre-game, intermission, and post-game host), Pete Soto (Sr. Director of Presentation and Production), Glenn Odebralski (Sr. Manager of Panthers website and social media department) and Brett Rowley (Graduate of the Connecticut School of Broadcasting).

For those interested in attending please sign up at http://floridapanthers.com/broadcastingschool or call (954)-835-8471.

NHL yanks offer and cancels all November games

Harvey Fialkov — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 15:53:16 GMT

Took a ride out to the Panthers facility this morning to see if the few remaining players in South Florida were holding their usual Friday morning practice. They weren’t and I was told they hadn’t all week. Defenseman Mike Weaver told me they’ve shifted to Pompano rink. And the team confirmed to me that Kris Versteeg is still receiving medical treatment from the team so he’s still the only Panther player getting paid while he’s on the injured list.

Check out my story on our website.

NHL still gets TV money even if season is cancelled

Harvey Fialkov — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 16:48:47 GMT

From the Philadelphia Inquirer

In a way, the NHL lockout is being partially funded by Comcast, the Flyers’ parent company.
The NBC Sports Group, a subsidiary of Comcast, is paying the league about $180 million in rights fees this season, and a network spokesman said on Monday that the NHL will receive all of that money even if no games are played in 2012-13.
There is an asterisk, however. If no games are played this season, the league will grant NBC a “free year at the back end of the agreement,” said the NBC spokesman, who asked to remain anonymous.
Last spring, the NHL and NBC signed a 10-year, $1.8 billion TV deal that starts this season and includes the highly popular Winter Classic. The deal has been erroneously reported as a $2 billion deal, the spokesman said.
Theoretically, the 11th year would be worth more than $180 million, so NBC would seem to be gaining in the trade-off and paying for the first year even if all games are canceled.
The lockout “didn’t take us by surprise,” said the spokesman, “which is why we have protection” at the back end of the deal.
It’s fair to wonder how resolute the NHL would be in its negotiating if it didn’t have the $180 million guarantee in its back pocket.
Some of the NHL games this season were scheduled to be telecast on NBC, and most were slated for NBC Sports Network, formerly Versus. To replace the NHL games, NBC is showing soccer, boxing, college hockey, and college basketball, along with rebroadcasts of the London Olympics.
NBC would not say how much advertising revenue it is losing by not having the NHL telecasts.

NHL cancels games through Nov.1

Harvey Fialkov — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 19:17:21 GMT

As expected the NHL has cancelled games through Nov. 1. That doesn’t necessarily rule out the season beginning on Nov. 2 as Commissioner Gary Bettman and the owners have outlined in their latest proposal. By now you now the players aren’t buying into this ‘50-50′ stance and have shot down the offer. They see it [...]

NHL owners offer 50-50 split of hockey related revenue in hopes of full season

Harvey Fialkov — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 19:31:44 GMT

The owners took a huge step in ending the lockout by offering 50-50 split of hockey related revenue. NHLPA’s Donald Fehr says it’s promising but need few days to go over the offer. NHL Commish Gary Bettman wants to start a full season on Nov. 2. Panthers would probably open Nov.3 vs. Winnipeg if players [...]

Future Panthers doing well in San Antonio during lockout

Harvey Fialkov — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 13:04:04 GMT

From Rampage pr department
If you miss the Panthers at least keep track of their future stars playing for their AHL affiliate in San Antonio

Colby Robak reminded the San Antonio faithful why he was an American League All-Star last season, as his third period goal gave the San Antonio Rampage (1-1-0-0) their first win of the season, 3-2, over the Houston Aeros (0-2-0-0) Sunday afternoon in front of 4,092 at the AT&T Center.
Robak also had an assist to cap off a two-point night en route to being named the First Star of the Game. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom stood tall in net for the Rampage, stopping 30 of the 32 shots he faced.
The Rampage penalty killers once again produced a solid effort as they held Houston to 2-for-9 on the man advantage, improving to 2-for-17 in their first two games of the year.
Houston converted on the power play to open the scoring at 3:46 when rookie Charlie Coyle redirected a cross crease pass by Markstrom to put the Aeros up 1-0.
Four minutes later, the Rampage struck back with a power-play goal of their own when Jean-Francois Jacques deflected in a rebound off his skate from a point shot by Robak. The goal was the first of the season for Jacques.
At 4:15 into the second period the Rampage claimed the lead when Houston netminder Matt Hackett misplayed the puck behind his own net. Center Greg Rallo grabbed the puck out of the air and sent a backhand shot past a scrambling Hackett to give the Rampage the lead.
Markstrom made several acrobatic saves in the second period to keep the Rampage in the game, including a right pad save that took away a sure goal from Houston forward Zack Phillips.
Aeros forward Jason Zucker tallied a power-play goal with just over a minute remaining in the second period to send the two teams into the intermission knotted at 2-2. Markstrom made the initial save on Zucker, but the Houston rookie was able to net the rebound.
The score remained tied through more than half of the third period until Casey Wellman fed a trailing Robak at the top of the left circle. The 6-foot-3, 210-pound defenseman fired a slapshot that beat Hackett clean to reclaim the lead for San Antonio.
The Rampage were able to hold on for the win and grabbed their first two points of the season.

NHL cancels first two weeks of season

Harvey Fialkov — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 20:04:34 GMT

The NHL has canceled the start of the regular season through Oct. 24 or basically the first two weeks of the season because of the absence of Collective Bargaining Agreement between the players and owners.

The Panthers will lose five games, including the season opener against Tampa Bay on Oct. 13, as well as home games against the Islanders on Oct. 18. Three road games have been canceled, including road matchups against the Capitals on Oct. 15, Tampa Bay on Oct. 19 and the Islanders on Oct. 22.

Panthers fans with questions regarding their ticket plan should call 954-835-PUCK.

Don Fehr, NHL Players’ Association Executive Director, released the following statement regarding today’s decision.

“The decision to cancel the first two weeks of the NHL season is the unilateral choice of the NHL owners,’’ Fehr said in a statement. “If the owners truly cared about the game and the fans, they would lift the lockout and allow the season to begin on time while negotiations continue.
“A lockout should be the last resort in bargaining, not the strategy of first resort. For nearly 20 years, the owners have elected to lock out the players in an effort to secure massive concessions. Nevertheless, the players remain committed to playing hockey while the parties work to reach a deal that is fair for both sides. We hope we will soon have a willing negotiating partner.’’

Former Panther enforcer Barch has twitter rant against owners

Harvey Fialkov — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 02:20:29 GMT

From Toronto Sun

In an emotional 26-post rant on Twitter Saturday night, written over some drinks in Grand Bend, Ont., NHL tough guy Krys Barch highlighted the concerns of the blue-collar pro in a simple way the league big-wigs, union kingpins or the stars heading to Europe never could express.

“I wonder if the owners of Boston, New York, Washington, etc., etch., have endured any of the injuries that I or any other player in the NHL have endured,” the New Jersey Devils forward wrote in 140-character-or-less snippets on his Twitter account. “Still they probably sit (there) smoking the same brand of cigar, sipping the same cognac and going on vacation to one of five houses they own…while we sit here knowing the want to take 20 % of our paychecks. One half to 3/4 of my peers will have to work, for the next 50 years of their lives.

“Congratulations to the lucky select few that I have played with who have made salaries that they can choose to do whatever they want when they are done. But I have played (with most) who do not!”

The 32-year-old Barch signed a two-year, $1.5 million contract to play in New Jersey after spending last season with the Florida Panthers.

“If the NHL wants to (keep) teams in the South or struggling markets, then the players, along with the financially well-to-do teams, need to start working together,” he said. “Or they need to start to move teams to the North where they will make money.

“The system allows the owners to continually take money from the players’ contract after contract where eventually over 40-some years, the owners will have 80% of the revenue.”

Barch bared his soul about his concerns of the road that lies ahead. He has two sons and his wife is pregnant with a third child.

“I haven’t been a 1st-round pick, bonus baby or a son of a Hall of Famer,” he wrote,” I have made it through sweating, bleeding, cut Achilles, broken hands, concussions, broken orbital bones, 8 teeth knocked out, etc. I have a shot and a beer. Not to deal with the days ahead but to ease the nerves from what my body has endured the days before.”

Thoughts?

Saratogian reporter catches up with Coach Dineen

Harvey Fialkov — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:44:34 GMT

From the Saratogian in upstate NY
“There’s a lot of disappointment at every level of hockey,” said Panthers coach Kevin Dineen, who spends summers at Glen Lake in Queensbury. “We were really excited about the momentum we were bringing into this season
Some of our players have rented ice time here in South Florida,” he said. “They’re skating together three or four times per week. Players have no access to team facilities during the lockout. Some of our European guys have gone home to play. It’s a real mixed bag on where guys are.”
He said it will take from 10 days to two weeks for teams to get ready if and when a new Collective Bargaining Agreement is reached. Dineen has done everything possible to plan out an abbreviated practice schedule so that he’s ready when things finally get settled.
If there is no movement, it wouldn’t be surprising to find Dineen watching a few Adirondack Phantoms games in Glens Falls. His father, Bill, a former Adirondack Red Wings coach, lives in Queensbury and his two brothers – Peter and Sean – scout the American league.
The Phantoms should be really loaded,” Dineen said. “They have a lot of players who played in Philadelphia last year. They’re true NHL players.”
“That’s always a concern,” he said of conditioning. “I see that St. Louis has seven players overseas. So they’ll be in more of a season mode than a training camp mode when the NHL season gets under way. It’s going to help teams like that.”
“It’s being handled at much different levels,” he said. “We’re just waiting to see how things play out.”

Panthers not on ice but staff is out in the community

Harvey Fialkov — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:36:39 GMT

Team release

Sunrise Sports & Entertainment today announced that more than 60 Florida Panthers staff members will help four different South Florida community organizations this afternoon during the second “RED Friday” of the season.

RED Fridays will continue through Florida Panthers opening night when Ford Fridays return for every Friday home Cats game.

Today’s “RED Friday” – part of the new “I Love Panthers Hockey” campaign – will feature visits to HandsOn Broward, the Boys & Girls Club, Feeding South Florida and Jack & Jill Children’s Center. Panthers fans and partners are invited to participate as well by calling 954-835-PUCK.

Panthers staff along with Stanley C. Panther and the Redline Lady Panthers assisted a number of South Florida community organizations last Friday to kick-off the campaign.

Today’s “RED Friday” schedule is as follows:

HandsOn Broward, 2-5 p.m.
Keystone Halls, 1420 SW 3rd Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315

Feeding South Florida,1-4:30 p.m.
2501 SW 32 Terrace, Pembroke Park, FL 33023

Rick & Rita Case Boys & Girls Club, 3:30-5 p.m.
7525 N.W. 33rd St., Davie, FL 33024

Jack & Jill Children’s Center (2-5pm)
1315 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Additional RED Friday Events Include:
- Oct. 5: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, HandsOn Broward, Boys & Girls Club, Feeding South Florida, Jack & Jill’s Children’s Center
- Oct. 12: HandsOn Broward, Boys & Girls Club, Feeding South Florida, Jack & Jill’s Children’s Center
- Oct. 19: Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, HandsOn Broward, Boys & Girls Club, Feeding South Florida, Jack & Jill’s Children’s Center

In addition, “I Love Panthers” merchandise kits featuring a collectible hat, t-shirt, bracelet, window cling and decal are available for $20 by logging on to FloridaPanthers.com or clicking here:

https://www.formstack.com/forms/?1282347-pBsk68TOqd

The kits are $20 each with a portion of the proceeds going toward the Florida Panthers Foundation and the fight against pediatric cancer.

Fans seen wearing any type of Panthers merchandise in the community may also find themselves with a surprise gift if seen by a Cats staff member or ambassador. Fans “caught” wearing red Panthers gear will receive a voucher good for two tickets to a home Panthers game, Saveology.com Iceplex skating passes, and more.

NHL cancels entire preseason schedule

Harvey Fialkov — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 19:42:48 GMT

As expected the NHL has cancelled the rest of the preseason schedule while the ongoing labor strife continues. Obviously, if there’s a resolution of the CBA differences the league will reschedule at least a few preseason games. So strike down those three preseason games against Tampa, including the one in Estero.

Panthers continue to give back to youth hockey

Harvey Fialkov — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 23:31:02 GMT

Team release
The Florida Panthers Alumni Association announced today that it has donated $5,000 in new youth hockey scholarships for the fall youth hockey season. Since its inception in 1997, the Florida Panthers Alumni Association has donated over $300,000 to youth hockey players and programs that otherwise could not afford the equipment and ice time required to play the game they love.

“The Panthers Alumni Association remains committed to helping youth hockey continue to grow in the South Florida community,” said Association President Randy Moller. “We hope these scholarships assist youth players with the costs involved in playing organized hockey.”

The Panthers Alumni Association grants scholarships twice a year. For the “fall” youth hockey season, 10 scholarships totaling $5,000 were granted. The most recently awarded grants will benefit individual youth hockey players of the JR. Panthers, Golden Wolves, Florida Alliance and Palm Beach Blackhawks. Grants are awarded based on academics, community service, team play, financial needs and endorsements from youth hockey organizations.

Kulikov and more Panthers opt for hockey in Europe

Harvey Fialkov — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 01:17:57 GMT

Panthers still unsigned defenseman Dmitry Kulikov has signed to play with Russia’s elite team – Yaroslavl Lokomotiv – the team that was all but wiped out in a tragic plane crash last year. Kulikov, who said recently he was looking to play back home rather than sit home and watch TV, would’ve probably been on the ill-fated flight if he hadn’t cut a deal to get out of his contract to play for the Panthers. Kulikov and Panthers management have repeatedly said they are confident they will get a deal done. There’s certainly no rush until the lockout ends and the new CBA is signed. Kulikov joins Panthers teamate Marcel Goc to play in Europe as Goc went home to play for Adler Mannheim in Germany.
Also, forward Sean Bergenheim left for his homeland in Flinland to play for HIMK for the SM-Liiga league, according to the team’s Web site, and a Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet reports that center Mike Santorelli joined Tingsyrd of the Sweden’s Allsvenskan, which is Tier two of the Swedish Elite League.
Most of these contracts stipulate that the NHL player can return to his NHL club as soon as the lockout ends.

Start of training camp officially delayed

Harvey Fialkov — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 21:35:41 GMT

The Panthers were supposed to hold physicals and skill tests today at Saveology.com IcePlex and begin on-ice practice on Saturday. Instead the dressing room is locked and the players are beginning to disperse all over the world.
Because I’m assigned to cover the Dolphins during the lockout, I was unable to get to the facility this morning. But I was there Wednesday and several players are deciding whether to play overseas or not. Panthers center Marcel Goc is returning to his native Germany to play for Adler Mannheim as reported on the team’s Web site. Ed Jovanovski and Mike Weaver have no plans to play elsewhere, while Stephen Weiss said he’d wait a few weeks before considering his options. Several players such as defenseman Nolan Yonkman have been assigned to to San Antonio, the Panthers AHL affiliate, as they begin training camp next week. Yonkman said he could’ve vetoed going to the AHL because of his veteran status but chose to play and stay in shape. He said he enjoys teaching the younger players and may look into coaching when his career ends.
Defenseman Dmitry Kulikov, who remains unsigned but is confident the Panthers will re-sign him when the lockout ends, has his agent looking into placing him on a Russian team. Kris Versteeg will remain in South Florida to continue his rehabilitation from hip surgery. He is allowed to use the Panthers facility and medical staff because he was injured during the season. That doesn’t hold true for young defenseman Erik Gudbranson, who underwent shoulder surgery a few weeks ago after sustaining an injury in an unofficial capacity. Neither Versteeg or Gudbranson would be ready to play if the season began on time. Versteeg said he may need two more months to fully heal while Gudbranson is out for about four months.

Goc headed home to play in Germany

Harvey Fialkov — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 15:43:56 GMT

Adler Mannheim of the DEL in Germany confirmed on its official Web site that it has verbal agreements with Bruins defenseman Dennis Seidenberg and Panthers forward Marcel Goc to join the team. Most of these contracts stipulate that the NHL player can return to his team once the lockout ends. Goc has been working out at the Panthers training facility in Coral Springs for the past three weeks.

From the team Web site
The two German NHL Stars Marcel Goc (Florida Panthers) and Dennis Seidenberg (Boston Bruins) informed the Adler that they would like to play in Mannheim during the NHL Lockout. The Adler have agreed to contract terms with both players but must wait until they have been released by their NHL Clubs. If their NHL Clubs do not release them then they will be unable to play for Mannheim. Plus there are insurance questions that still need to be clarified.

Neither Dennis Seidenberg nor Marcel Goc will be available to the Adler for the upcoming weekend’s games. The earliest possible game they would be available is Friday, 28 September 2012 against Nürnberg but only if the permission from the Clubs in Florida and Boston have been received.

Marcel Goc is flying to Germany today, 20 September and hopes to be training with the Adler next Tuesday. The arrival date for Dennis Seidenberg has yet to be finalized.