Panthers Forward Inching Closer To Return

Florida Panthers forward Noel Acciari is getting closer to finally returning from his injury. The team has sent him to the Charlotte Checkers on a conditioning stint. 

Acciari has been out for the entirety of the season thus far after undergoing surgery. The Panthers have obviously been just fine without him, as they have a 32-10-5 record and have the most points in the entire NHL. However, contenders can never have enough depth, and they will be getting even more of that once Acciari is officially back in the lineup.

Acciari is capable of providing very solid secondary scoring. This was made most apparent when he had 20 goals and seven assists in 66 games with the Panthers during the 2019-20 campaign. However, he also is a very dependable bottom-six forward because of his solid defensive play. This, of course, also makes him another worthy option for the penalty kill, too. 

Acciari is in the final year of his three-year, $5 million contract, so he will be looking to impress once he's finally able to get back on the ice. If the 30-year-old can play as well as he has the last two seasons, he could land himself a nice little raise as a free agent this summer. Yet, step one for him is to officially get back into Florida's lineup.

Photo Credit: © Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports