Ready to Make the Jump

 The Panthers are well out of the playoff race and it’s now time to look to next year. As it stands now only one rookie (Matt Duchene) has made a big contribution for the pro team but GM Wilson expects that number to rise next year, with a handful of players ready to make the jump for next season.

 A few of these players have already got a taste of the action this year but will be looked to be major pieces for the team next year. Young wingers Jamie Benn and Tyler Ennis have spent time on the team this year but were sent to the Everblades to help them out and to hone their skills and both have done well doing so. Though both of them should look to fit into the top 2 lines next year and be key pieces of the offense.  Another player looking to make the full time jump after spending two years in the AHL is Alex Pietrangelo. The smooth defenseman has spent some time on the pro team the last two years but will be looked to be a top line defense for the team next year.

 One of the bigger pieces acquired before the deadline, Corey Crawford is expected to make the jump next year. The young goaltender has played excellent in the AHL this year and is expected to battle Steve Mason next year for the starting gig. The Panthers are counting a lot of Crawford and believe his capabilities will propel him into being a very good starter.

 A handful of rookies are also looking to squeeze their way on to the bottom lines of the team next year.  The likes of Tom Wandell, Jake Dowell, Mike Brown, Cory Emmerton and Trevor Lewis are all looking to impress at next years camp and fight their way onto the roster. The franchise has high hopes for some of these players and hope next year is just beginning for their bright careers.

 The team also has a few players looking to make the jump right to the pros out of junior. Included in these are Cam Fowler, Oliver-Ekman Larsson and Jacob Josefson. The team is expecting Cam Fowler to be a strong piece for the team next year, while OEL and Josefson may have a chance to make the team, depending on how the team’s offseason goes.

 “We are really excited about this team’s future. Next year we expect to at least have 6 rookies in the starting lineup for next season and in reality it could be as many as 9 or 10 which is truly amazing.  We know we always say it but we are extremely happy with the development and strength of our future and it’s only going to get better. Once the hiatus ends and we get to the offseason, we expect to be very busy once again.”