LD, Ed Jovanovski, (1995-1999, 2011-2014)
This position was probably the most difficult pick to make.
Guys like Brian Campbell and Jay Bouwmeester could have occupied this spot, but I chose to pencil in “Jovo Cop.”
The main reason Jovo edges out the other two is because of his role with the team and his physical presence.
Seeing as the offensive Robert Svehla is my choice as the Panthers’ all-time right-handed defenseman, the team would need a sturdy, intimidating guy with shutdown abilities to play alongside him.
Jovanovski was the first-ever first overall draft pick in Panthers history, and he also served as the team’s captain for his final two years in the league.
In his first year back with the team (2011-2012), the Panthers returned to the postseason for the first time in 12 years.
During his career in Florida, he amassed 619 penalty minutes, which is the second most among all-time Panthers defensemen despite being eighth in games played (362 GP).
I’m sure there were lots of players out there who were relieved when Jovo retired. He was a terrifying yet talented defenseman, and the Panthers were lucky to have him.