Florida Enjoying the Success

 For the first time under GM Dylan Wilson, the winning ways are hitting the team. After years of building, which started off at 2008 draft, when he went to the podium to select Alex Pietrangelo. A few draft later, the pieces were there. Then it was some shrewd trading and signings that turned them into a winner. The drafting of Matt Duchene and Cam Fowler did wonders, the trading for Getzlaf, Crawford and Duchene and the signings of Dan Cleary and Toni Lydman pushed this team forward.

 "Everything has just been clicking for us," said team captain Ryan Getzlaf, "We've been playing great and we are getting production from everyone. Crawford has been great for us and has kept us in every game. My linemates in Benn and Backes have really been solid at creating room and getting everyone chances."

The Panthers are 8-2-1 to start the season and are 1st in the East. Yet Wilson doesn't want to get too out of hand. "Its early, Joe (Sacco) has done a great job with this team but we are not even a quarter into the season yet. It's been an excellent start and we are really happy with it.  But its a long season and we need to be prepared for the setbacks."

On rumours that the team is shopping young forward Matt Duchene. Dylan said that they have disscussed potential deals with a few teams and are still waiting it out. "We have had a few good offers, but at this moment we don't see the reason to pull the trigger. But we hope to keep the discussions open, and we hope to see more from Matt on the ice aswell."

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In minor league news. Mike Brown has been tearing it up scoring 23 points in 11 games.  Andrew Raycroft is tied for the lead with 2 shutouts.