Booth lifts Panthers past Thrashers in OT Sunrise, FL (Sports Network) - David Booth's goal with 1:06 left in overtime
lifted the Florida Panthers to a 3-2 win over the Atlanta Thrashers at
BankAtlantic Center.
With time winding down in the extra session, a centering pass in the Atlanta
end was deflected by a Thrashers skate. The puck was redirected toward the
goal and Kari Lehtonen was in position to make an easy save, but couldn't hang
onto the disc with his glove.
Instead, the puck slid in front of the crease and Booth came crashing in to
push the puck into an open net for the win.
Janis Sprukts has agreed to terms on a two-year deal with the Panthers, according to the AP. Panthers' GM Jacques Martin said, "We are happy that Janis has decided to return to the Panthers organization after spending a year in Finland. He has played a few games at the NHL level and understands what it takes to make it back there."
Panthers' GM Jacques Martin said Tuesday afternoon that he doesn't expect suspended winger Chad Kilger to play for Florida this season, according to the Miami Herald. Despite that Kilger's Toronto Maple Leafs were staying in Fort Lauderdale at the time, Kilger never reported to the Panthers. Initially, Florida allowed him to return to Canada because of family issues. Kilger was later suspended from the team without pay after failing to join the team. Kilger is scheduled to make $700,000 this season, but since he is suspended, Florida will not be required to pay Kilger unless he changes his mind and reports to camp. Martin said, "He's still dealing with some personal issues, and at this point, I don't think he'll be playing. We still hold his rights. He's indicated to me that if he were to play, he'd want to play for us. We're not the issue."
After multiple wrist surgeries, Mike Van Ryn stated he is ready to return to top form with the Panthers, according to the Miami Herald. He said, "I feel awesome now. I look at other guys around the league. It took Edmonton Oilers' defenseman Sheldon Souray a while to get his right. It can be a difficult surgery. I'm just excited to play, try and contribute and help the Panthers win some games."
