While the team didn’t take the ice during the first day of the 2015-16 season’s training camp, Wednesday marked the team’s media day for the Florida Panthers. On top of the early-morning signing of forward Jonathan Huberdeau, the team’s strong nucleus of forwards, defensemen, and front office staff commented on training camp and the upcoming season.
On Tuesday morning, the Florida Panthers announced that RFA Jonathan Huberdeau has agreed to a two year contract worth $6.5 million. He will reportedly earn $2.5 million through the first year of his contract, while he will earn $4 million during the second year as his stock is expected to go up.
The third overall pick of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Jonathan Huberdeau was a star player for the QMJHL’s Saint John SeaDogs before being drafted. He would make his NHL debut during the lockout shortened 2012-13 season, scoring 31 points (14 goals | 17 assists) in 48 games to earn the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s best rookie during that season.
Last season, he would establish career highs in goals (15), assists (39), and points (54) throughout a career-high 79 games played. Huberdeau also earned a +10 rating throughout last season, also a career-high. He has earned a total of 113 points (38 goals | 75 assists) over 195 games played.
Florida Panthers General Manager Dale Tallon had a lot on his mind Tuesday morning after the Panthers media day, stating that, “Jonathan is a skilled and dynamic young player who will play an important role on our team for the future. We want the best players and the best team. It’s really starting to come together.”
Training Camp Notes
The following news and findings occurred during training camp:
- 2015 first round pick Lawson Crouse is expected to make the Panthers Opening Night roster, with Tallon adding that he will most likely at least be given a 9-game tryout to decide if he is ready for the NHL this season.
- The team’s final spot on the blueline will sport either Steven Kampfer or Dylan Olsen. Dale Tallon expects Kampfer to make the team because of his versatility and his ability to play either defense or forward.
- PTO signing Martin Havalat commented on Jaromir Jagr, stating that Jagr is married to the game of hockey. He also noted that he spoke to Jagr over the summer about trying out for the team.
- Much like with his past NHL teams, the Panthers have given Jagr a set of keys to the Panthers Ice Den in order for him to complete his religious workout schedule. Jagr noted that he sometimes skates alone at midnight and has a nightly workout routine of 25 minutes of straight weight work in order to stay in shape.
- 3 on 3 Overtime: Tallon notes that the change is great for hockey and it’s fans.
- PTO David Booth on his return to South Florida and competing for a roster spot during training camp: “”When Florida offered me, I just thought it was a great opportunity. You want to come in, earn a spot. Nothing is given. You have to earn everything. Being on a tryout here, that really rings true.”
- Forwards Rocco Grimaldi, Connor Brickley, Garett Wilson, Lawson Crouse, David Booth, and Martin Havlat are considered the forwards competing for the final two roster spots.
- Tallon on the competition for the team’s final two roster spots: “We have a lot of guys and a few jobs. Do the math. We want the best players. It’s really starting to come together. There’s no excuse now. It’s time to take it to the next level.”
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