| Florida Panthers (16-13-4, 36 pts): Florida Panthers | Florida has been one of the league’s whipping posts for the past few seasons, and the prospects of anything improving this season seemed far-fetched after star player Olli Jokinen was traded to Phoenix in the offseason. The benefits of that trade have been remarkably noticeable, as the Panthers have the 6th best defense (85 goals against) in the NHL, compared to last season, when they gave up 144 goals before the All-Star break.  > |
Florida’s defensive corps was boosted by the additions of physical defensemen Nick Boynton, Bryan McCabe and Keith Ballard. Their veteran leadership and presence have helped the Panthers improve their ability to keep the puck out of their net, despite the poor play fo starting goalie Tomas Vokoun. Vokoun, who is 8-10 in 21 starts, has, to this point, been shown up by backup Craig Anderson (8-3, 2.15 GAA in 16 starts). However, Vokoun seems to be turning a corner, as he is currently 3-1-1 in the month of December.
Unfortunately for the Panthers, despite their vastly improved defense, they have been unable to come up with any offense. Florida’s 82 goals ranks them 27th in the league so far, ahead of only the dismal Senators and Lightning. Jay Bouwmeester is currently the club’s leading point scorer with 18 points, while David Booth leads the team with 12 goals. This lack of offensive production has led to the 3rd worst powerplay unit in the league.
Despite the Panthers’ offensive woes, their defense has kept them in a respectable position in the Eastern Conference so far. If they can find a way to fix up their poor offense, this team has the potential to be a solid contender in the very near future.
Current League Rankings
Goals - 27th Goals Against - 6th Powerplay Goals - 29th Powerplay Percentage - 28th Shorthanded Goals - T-17th Penalty kill percentage - 9th
