Three Takeaways from this Preseason Show: Samoskevich stands out on third line; Panthers come away mostly healthy

“Our players came through fairly healthy,” noted Panthers Head Coach Paul Maurice. “That was great news; hitting is essential to being an effective team and allows all aspects of our game to work more seamlessly than before. So we are pleased that it went well — this camp was fantastic!” Samoskevich Makes Debut desfasoaiting an Upper Body Injury throughout Training CampRookie Mackie Samoskevich made his inaugural preseason game Saturday after suffering through training camp with an upper-body injury, making a strong showing and skating on an ideal line with Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen against Los Angeles Kings (ideally, starting the year there too) where there could be great potential as Florida’s new third line!With Lundell poised for breakout play there could be considerable potential on that third line (especially with Lundell).This new third line could create endless possibilities when combined with Lundell who could make this new Florida 3rd line capable of creating offensive prowess! Maurice noted of Samoskevich: he appeared fast from start to finish of his shift. “Amateur players tend to come into practice and rotate through shifts, making their plays with the puck before standing aside to watch other guys go full throttle; after awhile they come back into it.” Based on one game alone and prior to his injury, he looked powerful and quick. With NHL level hands now and an improved pace today, I was very pleased with his play and am hopeful his development continues in our system. “Get Ready For Opening NightAt this point in time, the Panthers don’t have much time before the regular season begins.On Sunday it will be travel day; Monday they practice during the morning session before receiving their Stanley Cup rings that evening; Tuesday will bring Opening Night against Boston Bruins.”And don’t think that’s it; more exciting times lie ahead.” Florida will then play four road games over six days following their match with Boston. Maurice warned Florida not to “wade into” this contest: “With Boston twice this season and Buffalo and Ottawa being rivals, these games typically bring out plenty of penalty minutes – we shouldn’t turn our backs on peaking when needed – Tuesday should mark your starting line until December ends! Latest Florida Hockey News StoriesPanthers take 4-2 preseason victory over Kings in Quebec CityBlue Jackets and Panthers to wear No. 13 Gaudreau jerseys during Columbus home openerPanthers roster hopefuls make final push against KingsThe Hockey Show: Panthers NHL 25 grades; Bruins screwing Swayman overPanthers Training Camp roster is down to 30 players