Florida Panthers injury report feat. Spencer Knight, Givani Smith, and more

The Florida Panthers have had a decent NHL season so far, with a record of 34-27-7 in 68 games, placing them fourth in the Atlantic Division standings. They have had their fair share of challenges throughout the season, but have managed to maintain a level of consistency in their performances.

Despite facing some setbacks due to injuries, the Panthers have maintained a strong roster with notable players such as Aleksander Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau leading the way. They have been able to tally a good number of wins, making them a competitive team in the league.

While injuries have always been a factor in any sport, they have taken a toll on the Panthers' performance this season. They have shown resilience and determination, proving themselves to be a strong team in the league.

Florida Panthers goaltender Spencer Knight is out indefinitely.

Spencer Knight

On Wednesday, the Florida Panthers announced that goaltender Spencer Knight has reported to the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program. The news comes as a surprise to Knight, who was expected to share goaltending duties this season with Sergei Bobrovsky.

Knight's difficult season has been marked by inconsistency, with a 9-8-3 record in 21 Panthers appearances. This season, he has a 3.18 goals-against average and a .901 save percentage in the NHL. Knight did not play for the Checkers after being sent down to the AHL Charlotte nine days prior to his demotion being canceled.

It's unclear how long Knight will remain out or when he will be able to return to the ice. The Panthers will likely rely heavily on Bobrovsky and backup goaltender Chris Driedger in the meantime.

Florida Panthers forward Givani Smith placed on long-term injured reserve

Givani Smith

The Florida Panthers announced on Friday that forward Givani Smith has been placed on long-term injured reserve after sustaining a facial injury during Monday's game against the Anaheim Ducks. The move comes as the Panthers face a tight cap situation with several key players out of the lineup.

Smith was hit in the face by a shot from Radko Gudas in the second period of Monday's game and underwent a procedure this week that will keep him out of action until late March. The 29-year-old forward has been a key contributor for the Panthers this season, with a goal and three assists to go along with 47 penalty minutes and 48 hits in 22 NHL games.

Placing Smith on long-term injured reserve allows the Panthers to create some additional cap space, as his salary will not count against the team's cap while he is out of the lineup. Despite the setback, Smith is expected to make a full recovery and should be able to return to the ice in late March.

Florida Panthers forward Patric Hornqvist is not expected to return to the ice this season

Patric Hornqvist

The Florida Panthers received some unfortunate news this season as forward Patric Hornqvist is not expected to return to the ice this NHL season. The 34-year-old has been sidelined since December 3rd due to a concussion.

Hornqvist has been a key contributor for the Panthers when healthy this season, recording three points, 40 shots on goal, and 18 hits in 22 appearances. The two-time Stanley Cup champion was acquired by the Panthers in a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins last offseason and was expected to provide valuable leadership and depth to the team's forward group.

It's unclear at this time what Hornqvist's future holds beyond this season, but the Panthers will undoubtedly be hoping for a full recovery and a return to the ice next season.