If you have a stick-smashing cat on the front of your sweater, chances are you could be traded. While the Panthers could still make a push for the playoffs, GM Dave Tallon knows how to build a winner (see the Blackhawks) and will likely sell off some assets to move along the rebuild in South Florida.
Florida Panthers At The 2011 NHL Trade Deadline: Rumors, Needs And Expectations
Status: Seller
Players On The Block: Cory Stillman ($3.53 million), Bryan McCabe ($5.75 million), Tomas Vokoun ($5.7 million), Radek Dvorak ($1.7 million), Chris Higgins ($1.6 million)
Needs: Picks, prospects
Prediction: Stillman and McCabe have both come up frequently in rumors, while Vokoun is definitely the best goaltender that could be had on the trade market. Stillman will likely land somewhere (as mentioned, perhaps back in Carolina?), and McCabe will be coveted by any team in need of a power play quarterback (the Rangers?).
But all eyes will be on Vokoun: will a contender make a play for the incredibly talented Vokoun despite his lack of playoff experience? With Jacob Markstrom in the wings ready to assume the role as franchise goalie, expect Tallon to get as much as he can for Vokoun. The Sharks, Flyers and even Red Wings could make a play. But anyone and everyone could go, with Stephen Weiss and David Booth even seeing their names tossed around.
For more on the Panthers, visit Litter Box Cats. This post was written by Cory Lavalette.
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