Last season was a disaster. There is no denying that. The lockout, shortened training camp, and condensed schedule took it's toll on many teams and players in the NHL last season, but nothing like what the Panthers endured.

The Florida roster was not star-studded going in, but they were the defending Southeast Division champs and had high hopes to repeat, until the injury bug decimated the core of this team every which way. No other organization would have been able to absorb the number of key starters lost to injury. Florida lead the NHL in man games lost to injury.

One of the key core players is Erik Gudbranson. His toughness and leadership in his third season will be a vital factor in this team's success. Here he discusses the mindset in the Florida locker room heading into this season.



It would seem impossible that it could be worse for the Panthers this season in regards to injuries, especially with now having the benefit of a full camp.

All players began skating this week, and there are only a few players still healing from injury in Kris Versteeg and Ed Jovanovski. While both are hopeful to be in the lineup opening night, odds are against it at this time. Sean Bergenheim(groin), Aleksander Barkov(shoulder), and Jonathan Huberdeau(hip), are all expected to be good to go.

Dan Spiegel...
Florida Panthers Media
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