PHT’s Morning Skate takes a look around the world of hockey to see what’s happening and what we’ll be talking about around the NHL world and beyond.
New Jersey Devils defenseman Anton Volchenkov (leg) has been put on the injured reserve list, but on a more positive note, Jon Merrill is ready to resume his career after suffering a concussion in his NHL debut. (The Star-Ledger)
Sean Couturier has regained his confidence, but that won’t necessarily lead to the 20-year-old forward getting more points. Philadelphia Flyers coach Craig Berube wants to see Couturier prioritize his defensive game. (Philadelphia Inquirer & Daily News)
Editor’s Note: Pro Hockey Talk’s partner FanDuel is hosting a one-day $2,500 Fantasy Hockey league tonight (Tuesday). It’s just $10 to join and first prize is $500. Starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. Here’s the link.
Defenseman Brian Campbell wants to see some significant improvements from the Florida Panthers when they have the man advantage. Even during their disappointing 2013 campaign, the Panthers ranked sixth with a 20.4% success rate in power-play situations. This season they’re dead last at 9.5%. (Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel)
Buffalo Sabres coach Ted Nolan thinks having a capable fourth line is vital. (Buffalo News)
Rangers associate coach Scott Arniel said that the team hasn’t given up on Michael Del Zotto after listing him as a healthy scratch for two straight games. (Bergen Record)
Why did the Florida Panthers agree to absorb half of Kris Versteeg’s remaining salary and cap hit when they traded him to the Chicago Blackhawks? Florida had reportedly been shopping Versteeg for a while and the Blackhawks were the only ones expressing much interest. (ESPN.com)
Highlights from Pittsburgh’s 3-1 win over Anaheim: