Unplanned ups and downs are part of hockey. Every time a recession happens, rumors and searches for saviors arise. Even though Evgeni Malkin is an active player for the Pittsburgh Penguins, some behind-the-scenes discussions have him joining the Florida Panthers. Why is the 2007 Calder Trophy winner (best rookie) at the center of the rumor mill, yet again?
As of today, not a single Florida Panthers forward or defenseman sits in the Top 10 NHL rankings. While individual stats aren’t as vital as team efforts, the Cats’ troubles were predictable. The season started without Matthew Tkachuk, Tomas Nosek, and Aleksander Barkov.