Florida Panthers

Home cooking, or spring cleaning?

March 6th, 2008 by The Iceman

Tonight starts a 7 game homestand with the Pittsburgh Penguins coming to town. Had the Panthers played with some consistency in February they might be sitting at the top of the division or at least in the top 8 in the conference, and this homestand could have helped solidify their position. However, the mountain is still there to climb. The Panthers find themselves 6 points out of the 8th spot and 7 points out of first. They basically have to win at least 5 of these games to somehow stay in the race. Anything less and you might as well start making vacation plans.

Speaking of vacation, Chad Kilger has been suspended without pay after leaving the team for personal reasons. Kilger acquired at the trade deadline had missed some time in January with the Leafs and whatever issue he’s having is still unresolved. Congratulations are in order to Uncle Jack for making this deal in which he gave up a 3rd round pick to the Leafs. Who says the Leafs aren’t smart?!

Is there a goalie controversy? Craig Anderson has been extremely sharp in his last 2 starts. He has stopped his last 65 shots and 133 of 134. Will this performance continue and how will Tomas Vokoun react to this situation. Vokoun is the number one goalie here, but you have to admit Anderson is the hot hand and I would imagine that he will continue to play until that changes. Which based on his track record, could be anytime!

Is it coincidence that since “Pinkie” Weiss has returned to the lineup that the Panthers have pitched 2 shutouts in a row? Nah! I could never admit to that. Anyway he’s not the one stopping the shots.

Finally at tonights game Panthers, head athletic trainer David Zenobi will be honored before the game for his efforts in helping save Richard Zednik’s life following his injury in Buffalo. Zednik will also be on hand for the ceremony.

Thanks for reading

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