The Florida Panthers are having an exceptional regular season, perhaps the best in their short history. It’s a little tougher for goaltender Spencer Knight, who made a strong comeback to the National Hockey League (NHL) on Monday.
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The 20-year-old doorman had been recalled from the Charlotte Checkers the day before. The Panthers general staff had deemed that letting Knight regain confidence in the minor ranks was the best solution for his development. In addition, Sergei Bobrovsky is exceptional between the posts this season, which has allowed them to be patient.
The young American got his first NHL start in over a month and did well stopping 29 shots for the Buffalo Sabers in a 6-1 win.
“He was incredible, admitted the Quebecer Anthony Duclair, author of a goal during this match. He made some very good saves. We’re glad he’s back. He is a goalkeeper with a lot of skills, talented, and we are lucky to have him.
Thus, it should be remembered that Knight did not break into the formation of the Panthers until the day after his 20th birthday, last year. He was thrust into the limelight quickly – perhaps too quickly – and needed to learn a bit from the professionals.
Coach’s confidence
Head coach Andrew Brunette never worried about the one who was selected 13th overall in the 2019 draft. He had the luxury of waiting and allowed Knight to play 10 games in Charlotte.
“At his age, I think playing is probably the most important thing, and it’s good for a young player to have to struggle, to fight a little bit,” admitted the former striker. It’s not always fun, the American League, but he went there with a great attitude, and he got a lot of help there and we know how good he is.”
“He’s one of the best goalies I’ve seen at this age and we’re just trying to get him to develop in the right way,” explained Brunette, who says he loved everything about his protege’s performance against the Sabers. .
This year, Knight is the only regular goaltender to be at least 22 years old. In good hands with the Panthers, he is 10-6-2 with a 3.10 goals-against-average and .902 save percentage.