By Toby Rice

The season is one quarter of the way through and the Florida Panthers are not where they want to be. With a 8-11-3-0 record, their 19 points are good for 13th in the conference.
"No, not where we should be," the Panthers' GM said. "We're better than 13th. We should be challenging for the division."
The few bright spots remain the same. Newcomer Brayden Schenn continues to lead the team in scoring. He's put up 8 goals and 15 assists, pacing for over 80 points. At 37 years old, that would be his best production of his career.
"It's amazing. We brought him in to be a leader. He signed a team-friendly contract to be able to be here, and he is just tearing it up. On pace for what, 85 points? That's incredible at 37."
The other bright spot is growing youngster, Dylan Guenther. The 22 year old right wing has 18 points in 22 games, and is on pace for his best season of his short career. He's turned a corner this year, and is earning first line minutes.
On the defensive side, Philip Larsen is leading the team at +15. Another offseason acquisition, Larsen has been an instant leader for this team.
"It's not often you hit a home run in free agency, but we did this year. Schenn and Larsen are the perfect leaders. Leading by example, and they've been our best players to start the season. We look forward to seeing the team grow around them."
Florida hopes to turn the season around, beginning with a matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets on the road this evening.
8/19/2025 - 271 words