One game does not make a season.

But the statement the Florida Panthers made last night in their 7-1 romp over the Philadelphia Flyers was shocking even for the most diehard Panthers fan.

Not only was the 4 goals scored in the first 6:46 of the game the fastest in modern NHL history to start a season, but the announced sellout crowd of 19,434 watched both youngsters and veterans light up Steve Mason and Michal Neuvirth from all over the ice.

It's no secret that Jaromir Jagr has quickly become a team and fan favorite. His two goals brought some of the loudest eruptions from the crowd heard in quite some time. His line with Sasha Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau did not miss a beat from last year, and the potential for them over a full season is downright scary.

Earlier this summer GM Dale Tallon traded Jimmy Hayes to Boston for Reilly Smith. It didn't take long to see that the Panthers may have benefited once again from a masterful trade that upgraded the offense. While Hayes is huge player and is great in front of the net on power plays, Smith brings a better all around game, speed, and softer hands. His first goal at 5:46 of the 1st period was the type of goal in close proximity to the goaltender that Hayes would never have capitalized upon. Smith also scored at 7:55 of the 3rd period and was the 3rd star of the game. Both goals were on the power play. Tallon wants his team to be fast and skilled. Smith fits that mold much better than Hayes.

Vincent Trocheck scored the first goal of the year at 1:23 of the 1st period, set a career high with 4 points, and was the 1st star of the game. Also joining the goal-scoring party were Nick Bjugstad and Jussi Jokinen.

After the Flyers lost the first 3 on 3 overtime game in NHL history in Tampa two nights prior, it was no surprise they were quickly frustrated with how Florida destroyed them from the opening seconds. The game was often chippy and Shawn Thornton was a busy man, especially with Ryan White who attempted to be an agitator all game long with futile results.

For the first time in many years, the buzz surrounding this up and coming Panther team seems to be legitimate. The balanced scoring, excellent special teams, and physical play has this team going in the right direction to start the season.

The Panthers are historically slow starters and they know from past experience games in October are just as important as those in March. The goal must be to not be looking up at the entire conference in December having to claw their way up the standings. It's important to state their playoff intentions early.

Florida was the most improved team in the NHL last season. If last night was any indication of what is to come, more improvement is to be expected.

Monday night will be a strong test as the Cats head to Philadelphia to complete the home and home. It will be the Flyers' home opener so it will be interesting to see how Florida handles the atmosphere as well as an angry Flyers team that will be looking for payback.

Dan Spiegel
Florida Panthers Media

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