By Daniel Coyle, Featurd
The Florida Panthers opened the 2018/2019 NHL campaign amid high expectations after closing out last season on an impressive drive that left them just one point short of a playoff spot. But instead of making a breakthrough in the highly competitive Atlantic Division, the Panthers have taken a step back, and enter the final four weeks of the season all but assured of finishing outside the playoff picture for the 16th time since 2000.
There is still plenty to like about this squad. The offseason addition of Mike Hoffman bolstered an already impressive offensive attack, and South Florida hockey fans can look forward to watching the continued development of prospects like Owen Tippett, Henrik Borgstrom, and Aleksi Heponiemi.