REACHING FOR DEPTH
Panthers have shooting stars coming up in system. They’re bound to add balance
HALL OF FAMER Chris Pronger has gone from cross-checking forwards to cross-referencing prospects with the Panthers as a special advisor to GM Dale Tallon. “We’re a team going this way,” Pronger said, his hand moving upward. But they’re not there yet. As proved by their terrible start followed by a frantic chase for a playoff spot, there is work to do. The good news is the future looks bright. That would be enhanced if the Panthers could have another draft like Tallon’s first two in 2010 and ’11, heights that they haven’t approached since. IMMEDIATE NEEDS: Beyond their top pair of Keith Yandle and Aaron Ekblad, and sometimes with it, the Panthers struggled defensively. They gave up too many shots and shot attempts, which put a strain on their goalies. Beyond their top two lines, they need more depth at forward, particularly on right wing. LONG-TERM NEEDS: For all the analytics the Panthers have embraced, you’d think they’d realize getting virtually no production from their fourth line is not a recipe for success. Florida opted to have a designated tough guy and players trending downward on that line. The remedy is an influx of young talent to create depth. CAP SITUATION: With all their core players signed to long-term deals, the Panthers are looking pretty stable when it comes to payroll, with about $65 million committed and no significant players who will command raises. The question is, do they use that room to get talent or do they continue to muck around as a budget team with lots of cap space? IN THE SYSTEM 2018-19: University of Denver standout Henrik Borgstrom signed after his NCAA campaign ended and had a late-season taste of the NHL. Owen Tippett is a big, strong player with a shoot-first mentality. He could be a gamebreaker but needs to work on his play away from the puck. DID YOU KNOW: Florida had just one prospect at the WJC. Aleksi Heponiemi played for Finland and did not stand out, despite gaudy stats in the WHL. Tippett was expected to play for Canada but didn’t make the cut. Only Pittsburgh (zero) had fewer WJC prospects.