Bjugstad back! Panthers forward expected to make season debut vs. Flyers

By foxsports
Published

FLORIDA PANTHERS PRESS RELEASE

SUNRISE, Fla. -- Florida Panthers President of Hockey Operations Dale Tallon announced Monday that the Panthers have activated forward Nick Bjugstad from injured reserve. Bjugstad is expected to make his season debut on Tuesday, Nov. 22, against the Philadelphia Flyers. 

Additionally, the Panthers have loaned forward Jared McCann to the club's American Hockey League affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.

"We are excited for Nick's return. He is a foundational player for us," said Tallon. "Jared has played very well for us this season, especially on our recent road trip, and is a big part of our future. He will be able to receive significant playing time, including special teams opportunities in the AHL, which will allow him to continue to develop into a top-six NHL forward with the Panthers."

The 24-year old Bjugstad played in 67 games with the Panthers during the 2015-16 season, recording 34 points (15-19-34). In five games of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Bjugstad recorded four points (2-2-4).

The 6-foot-6, 218-pound native of Minneapolis, Minn., led the Panthers with 24 goals in 72 games during the 2014-15 season and led the Panthers with 38 points (16-22-38) in 76 games during his rookie season in 2013-14. He has played 226 NHL games, all with Florida, and has recorded 116 points (56-60-116).

Bjugstad was originally selected by the Panthers in the first round (19th overall) of the 2010 NHL Draft.

The 20-year old McCann has played 17 games with Florida this season, recording three points (1-2-3). The 6-foot-1, 198-pound native of Stratford, Ontario has played 86 career NHL games for Florida (2016-17) and Vancouver (2015-16), recording 21 points (10-11-21).