What a great problem to have...
...too many players for so few spots.
Quick hit here before I get some news and notes here in Minneapolis.
It seems that Sean Bergenheim, Tomas Kopecky, and Scottie Upshall are in a platoon of sorts.
When any player has a bad game or doesn't perform up to head coach Gerard Gallant's expectations, it's time to sit. Or if a player gets injured like Brandon Pirri did Tuesday night, a fresh body is ready to step in.
Is it a perfect system? No.
Is it one that the Panthers haven't seen, maybe ever? Yes.
You see, the Panthers aren't known for depth. In fact, they aren't known for talent.
But those days are long gone.
When it comes to building a franchise the right way, GM Dale Tallon knows what he is doing. Just ask fans in Chicago.
However, the project in South Florida might take a little longer than it did in the Windy City.
That is ok, as long as it happens.
But when seasoned veterans are sitting in the press box in prime of their careers, something has to give.
That is why Tallon has to be a seller, AND a buyer at the coming trade deadline. To do nothing is to perpetuate this logjam of NHL players that could be a benefit elsewhere while further solidifying the foundation for the future in Sunrise.
It is a luxury to have depth. But too much is just overkill. The Panthers are so close to being back as a legitimate contender for a playoff spot. The fans need a reason to believe this organization is all in for this year AND beyond.
Tallon and ownership need the bank roll that comes with a playoff berth as well. Nothing solves stability and relocation questions like winning. There is no question this roster is good enough to compete with anyone in the league.
But they need the playoff appearance to show it, and that is why Tallon has to get rid of the extra bodies. Who they are and what they're worth remains to be seen, but it has to happen.
Dan Spiegel Florida Panthers Media