The Rat Trick
Fansided

Florida Panthers: Players to Compete At The IIHF World Championship

By Tara Zionts

Mar 30, 2017; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens left wing Phillip Danault (24) and Florida Panthers defenseman Jason Demers (55) battle for the puck during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 30, 2017; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens left wing Phillip Danault (24) and Florida Panthers defenseman Jason Demers (55) battle for the puck during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Florida Panthers players take on the IIHF Worlds tournament. Nick Bjugstad, Jason Demers, and Mike Matheson hope to help their teams achieve victory in the coming weeks.

Amidst the excitement of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, hockey fans tend to forget about the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championship taking place. The most elite NHL players who are not already participating in the Stanley Cup Playoffs are then asked to participate in IIHF Worlds. Among them are three Florida players. Seeing the Panthers with different teammates will be an exciting occurrence, and one fans do not see frequently.

Two Panthers D-Men, Jason Demers and Mike Matheson, will both be playing for team Canada. The two have already developed a chemistry over the 2016-17 season, so seeing them play together on Team Canada will feel natural for both. They will even be roommates throughout the tournament, posting playful Instagram’s upon arrival.

Jason Demers’ past season wasn’t truly his best. Yes, Jason tallied a career-high of 9 goals throughout the year, but it didn’t make up for his poor performance defensively. Demers was a free agent when he signed with The Panthers this past summer. Hopefully the Worlds will help him regain some confidence after a tough first year with the Cats. Were all expecting Jason to bounce back come next season.

Matheson led Team Canada to victory at the last Worlds Competition, which was certainly a big reason for him having a full-time spot on the roster this past season. Considering it was his first full-time NHL season, Matheson had an incredible run. Matheson tallied 7 goals and was a solid defenseman for the Cats. Considering Mike played a huge role last year at worlds, he is certainly expected to produce more at this year’s tournament. Doubling his own success along with his team’s success would be a huge step for the young player and will ensure some more confidence on the youngster.

Next: Florida Panthers: Michael Mathesons 2016-17 Rookie Season

Lastly, the final Panther competing in worlds this year is forward Nick Bjugstad. Ridden with injuries in the beginning of the season, Bjugstad produced far less than any season he has previously played in. Nick could also be on the list of possible unprotected players left open for Las Vegas to take.

Let’s hope that will not be the case as big Nick is an important piece to the team when at full force. Perhaps his play at the Worlds will make him a more desirable player to keep protected. Bjugstad has already scored 1 goal in an exhibition game against Italy and any confidence Nick can add along the way is crucial for heading into next season.

Home/Panthers News