The Florida Panthers made quite a leap forward in 2015-16, yet many of the architects of their transformation are either being moved to new positions or fired altogether.
The latest to get fired is Scott Luce, a scouting director who first joined the Panthers way back in 2002.
This report surfaced from Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman and was confirmed by new GM Tom Rowe by way of George Richards of the Miami Herald.
It sounds like this might come down to “creative differences.”
.@FlaPanthers GM Tom Rowe confirms firing of Scott Luce, longtime director of scouting/player personnel. 'We wanted a different voice'
— George Richards (@GeorgeRichards) May 23, 2016
Other members of the front office are expected to take on larger roles, though Rowe may also hire a replacement for Luce’s duties.
The executive is expected to draw considerable demand from around the NHL.
Luce is considered one of the best in his position and the Panthers just made him a free agent.
— Jeff Marek (@JeffMarek) May 23, 2016
To recap, the Panthers changed at the top, with Rowe taking over the GM position while Dale Tallon moved on to a president-type role. Florida also parted ways with assistant coach and former player John Madden.
The Panthers will look different on the ice with new duds in 2016-17, and may sport a few philosophical changes that may not be as apparent to the naked eye.
Perhaps we’re in for an intriguing off-season of moves?