My apologies for being gone for about a week on vacation, but just wanted to post a quick hit here about the situation that is surrounding Erik Gudbranson.

While head coach Peter Horachek said Gudbranson's physical presence was missed in the Panther's embarrassing 6-2 loss to the Bruins Tuesday night, it was the second healthy scratch in a row for the talented blue liner.

After having orbital bone surgery in December, Gudbranson returned with a full cage to protect his face as it continued to heal. However, his play, production, and minutes decreased from that point. After being scratched for the third straight game in another embarrassing loss in Toronto Thursday night, questions are emerging as to why Gudbranson remains a spectator.

Some say playing with the cage has really hampered his style of play, as well as being able to locate the puck quickly. Others say he wasn't playing that well before the injury and this might have happened either way. He doesn't have a point since December 10th, and has 2 goals, 5 assists, and is -7 for the year.

Unfortunately it looks like a fragile situation is brewing in South Florida. While Gudbranson's game is tough as nails, his offensive game has not developed as quickly as Panther's brass would like.

With GM Dale Tallon being given permission to make Florida a cap team through trade and/or free agency, it will be interesting to see if Gudbranson is a player that Tallon may consider as a movable piece. However, he could also be a future captain of this team with his makeup, drive, and passion for the game. It could go either way.

But in my conversations with him, Gudbranson could not be a more likable and focused person. He's always been one to learn from the ups and downs of a professional hockey career. This happens to be one of those lows, and no matter what he should come out of this funk soon.

His talent is undeniable, and if he got better at targeting that booming slapshot a little better, he'd be a monster.

With the Panthers crashing back to earth after a hot December, it looks like they could be sellers instead of buyers at the trade deadline. But that is a discussion for another day.

Do you think Gudbranson is going to be made available via trade or is he an unmovable piece for the future in South Florida?

As always, your comments are appreciated.

Dan Spiegel...
Florida Panthers Media

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