Wanna blog? Start your own hockey blog with My HockeyBuzz. Register for free today!
 

FLA vs OTT, Four-Game Road Trip Starts Tonight

March 27, 2023, 2:08 PM ET [22 Comments]
Matt Ross
Florida Panthers Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
After a hot seven-game point streak, the Cats flipped the script and lost three crucial games in a row.

For the past couple weeks, the Penguins and Islanders have done a great job allowing the Panthers to keep their playoff hopes alive. However, Florida has failed to execute on their end and the recent 4-3 loss to the New York Rangers now puts them three points behind the Pittsburgh Penguins for the final Wild Card spot.

Never say never, but it’s looking like Florida’s postseason dreams are all but dashed out after missing out on those six valuable points last week.

While the injuries to Bennett, Duclair (who still looks hurt), Ekblad (super slow), etc., play a factor this season — especially as of late — it would be cowardly (and completely inaccurate) to use this as an excuse. We have said it all year, the Panthers are too inconsistent and, honestly, just not that good to compete with the real playoff teams…and don’t get me started on this defense again…

Down and (almost) out, the Cats set off on a four-game road trip that sees them taking on Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, and Columbus. That trip starts tonight when they take on the Senators. It’s no secret to hockey fans, the Sens are one of those teams that can surprise anyone on any given night.

I don’t like being negative, but it’s just been such a frustrating season, especially after the wild success of last year’s regular season. Just imagine in the Islanders and Penguins were playing better? The Panthers would have been out of it a long time ago.

We’ll see what their game plan is for tonight, but whatever it is, they HAVE to tighten up the defense. There has been far too many blunders and mistakes by the blueliners lately. When you’re struggling to be competitive and win, a Swiss cheese defense certainly doesn’t help.

_________________

Eight points up for grabs starting tonight. Do these guys have what it takes?

Go Panthers!
Join the Discussion: » 22 Comments » Post New Comment
More from Matt Ross
» Panthers vs Flyers
» Florida vs Nashville: Apex Predator Mascot Showdown
» Woof!, Tampa Tonight, Paul Laus
» Pre-Postseason Taste: Cats vs Canes
» Shooting Stars: Panthers vs Stars