At the end of Thursday's morning skate, Dineen called the team into one corner of the ice and gathered them close. Rookie Erik Gudbranson, Dineen said, would be staying with the Panthers after his nine-game tryout was completed later that night.

Teammates celebrated by banging their sticks on the ice and taking turns giving the 19-year-old a hug. Wayne Gudbranson, Erik's father, watched from the stands. He was in tears and couldn't speak when offered congratulations.

“Definitely knowing I'm part of this team now and staying for the year is just awesome,'' said Erik, who hails from the Ottawa area.

Said Dineen: “I thought it was the right call to let him know, and let him know in front of his teammates. It's great news not only for Erik, but this is a reflection on his family. Nothing is given at this level; you have to earn it. And he has through the past eight games.''


Marad a kisgyerek!
:fogatlan: