Here We Go!

 Here we go!

     Tonight the new-look Panthers begin their season against the Islanders. Expectations for this coming season, although not where they should be, are still considerably higher than they have been in the past. The 2011-2012 season will inevitably be one of two things for the Panthers. Either they exceed expectations and make a legitimate push into the playoffs, or they have another rough season, another top draft pick and have the season be another rebuilding year. This year may not be the year for the Panthers, but it is clear that next year will be. Panther fans are hoping General Manager Dale Tallon’s plan comes to fruition one year early, and with the team he has assembled that is a distinct possibility. However, with Jacob Markstrom, and Erik Gudbranson making the team this season, and Johnnu Huberdeau, Quinton Howden and potentially a slew of other prospects ready to make the jump next season, 2011 holds plenty of promise, but 2012 holds legitimate expectations. The Panthers may surprise, but win or lose this season, the decade of the Florida Panthers being a “rebuilding” franchise is over. The Panthers are built to win and have the pieces in place to make the transition into being a competitive team, and a potential cup contender. So let’s kick the season off right. It all begins tonight and it will only get better from here. GO PANTHERS GO!