Can Panther fans be any happier today? Probably not. While some are still smarting about what could have been while watching the Devils make it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals, most have to think the chance of the Panthers playing in those same Finals in the near future just became more realistic.

GM Dale Tallon came to Florida two years ago with a blueprint in hand and a horrible roster. Two years later the Panthers are division champions for the first time in franchise history made the playoffs for the first time in 12 years, and are widely regarded to have the deepest organization in the league.

Stability is a word that has rarely been uttered when talking about the Florida Panthers since their inception. Those days are long gone. Although terms were not released, it is thought that Tallon signed for another three years. His initial contract would have ended after next season.

“I’m elated, over the moon for this,’’ Tallon said. “I couldn’t see myself working for anyone else. ... I want to be here forever. I’m still a young man. I’m fit, willing and able. I like it here, I like Florida, I like [owner] Cliff Viner, and I like working with this organization. We have a long way to go, but I’m excited about our future. I don’t want to be any other place. This is a thrill. I’m proud as hell to be a Florida Panther.’’

Not only is Dale on board for several more years, but this might just turn out to be a long-term marriage that will create long overdue respect for this organization on the rise. Free agents are already noticing. The salary cap situation is sound. Jonathan Huberdeau, Quinton Howden, Nick Bjugstad, and others are on the way.

Who better to lead this team to unprecedented consistency? He did it in Chicago and is determined to do it here. If his first two years are any indication of what is to come, there will be many huge postseason hockey games in the Bank Atlantic Center. It took what seemed to be forever, but Tallon is paying back the fans for their patience in large ways.

Twitter @DanSpiegel

Join the Discussion: » 14 Comments » Post New Comment

» Goodbye To Hockeybuzz

» Aleksander Barkov Finally Gets His Due

» Marchessault Stings

» Are The Panthers A Tease?

» The Legacy Jagr Left Behind...