Florida’s only home game of the 2009 preseason was a resounding success on – and off – the ice. Beyond their playing with a captain for the first time in over 16 months, the turnout was higher (8,923 announced) than certainly I had guessed it would have been for a Wednesday evening off-season non-conference matchup.
Cats’ winger Radek Dvorak (1g, 1a) solidified exactly why the team re-signed him this summer: he scores shorties. His SH goal off the backhand at 9:38 of the third broke the spine of Dallas’ hopes to rejoin the fray, stretching the lead to 3-1.
Panthers goaltender went the duration, stopping 23 of 24 shots, while opponent Marty Turco had a rough going, allowing four goals on 29 shots.
Ironically, the Stars‘ lone goal was – again – scored by Jamie Benn, who came one assist away from a Howe Hat Trick after his fight with Mike Duco late in the third.
David Booth (1g, 1a) led all Florida skaters with six SOG, while Bryan McCabe‘s premiere as captain produced no points (+1), though his minutes led the team (23:29).
Going to throw a couple of pics from the game up tonight, along with a wrap of what’s taken place over the past few days. This “starting a new job” thing can be a bear on free time!