Just days before the draft, the Florida Panthers got down to business by acquiring Mike Hoffman from the San Jose Sharks, while filling a primary need.
On Tuesday, July 19th at 10:15 am, it was announced that forward Mike Hoffman and a 2018 seventh-round draft selection would be heading to Florida in exchange for a 2019 second-round pick, 2018 fourth-round pick, and a 2018 fifth-round pick.
This addition particularly fills an essential need for the Cats, as they needed to bolster their top-six and scoring depth heading into next season. Hoffman, who is 28-years-old, recorded 22G, 34A, and 56 points in 82 games with the Ottawa Senators last season.
Throughout his career, Mike has come close to hitting the thirty-goal mark twice, with his closest being in 2014-15 (27G) and 2015-16 (29G), respectively. Hoffman also spent some time in the AHL, playing for Ottawa’s affiliate (Binghamton Senators), while tallying 71G, 98A, and 169 points in 242 AHL games. During his time in Binghamton, the Canadian-born winger took home the 2011 Calder Cup.
Panthers GM Dale Tallon had a few things to say about the newly acquired Mike Hoffman:
"“Mike is a skilled, consistent and hard-working player who has proven himself to be a talented goal scorer in the NHL. His speed, experience and offensive abilities will bolster our top-six group.”"
Mike will undoubtedly bring a scoring presence down to South Florida, adding to Florida’s weaponry up front. Hoffman not only possesses a lethal release that can beat any goaltender in this league, but also has a ‘nose for goal.’
His acquisition comes at a relatively cheap price, as the Panthers sacrificed draft picks instead of players in the deal. It was reported that Ottawa’s asking price was ‘too high,’ and that the San Jose Sharks phoned last night to get the trade completed:
Dale Tallon says Ottawa contacted him last week about acquiring Mike Hoffman but the price was too high. Then San Jose phoned him last night.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) June 19, 2018
Next: Keith Yandle’s 2017-18 Season Recap
Overall, the Florida Panthers got what they most coveted for: a top-six scoring winger. Now with that need filled, the Panthers can move on to addressing other areas of concern, like their goaltending situation.