Latest news with #FloridaPanthers
Time of India
2 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Markus Nutivaara attempts a return with Karpat after years of setbacks due to injury
Markus Nutivaara (via Getty Images) Veteran ex-Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Markus Nutivaara is returning at the professional level after a tumultuous injury-compelled retirement. The 31-year-old signed a one-year contract with his hometown Liiga powerhouse, Kärpät. It's the first official on-ice activity since he played one game for the Florida Panthers in October 2021, a contest that capped his long battle with nagging hip injuries. Markus Nutivaara signs with hometown Kärpät after hip surgeries Markus Nutivaara, a reliable blue liner for the Columbus Blue Jackets, will be lacing up his skates once again in Oulu, Finland, with Kärpät. The Finnish defenseman has not appeared in professional hockey since Oct. 29, 2021, when he played roughly seven minutes for the Florida Panthers. Although he had one assist in that single game, the play occurred during a tough time for him to bounce back from his initial hip surgery, a process that ultimately led to his retirement from the sport. In a nutshell, after being an unrestricted free agent for two years, in 2022, Markus Nutivaara signed a one-year contract with the San Jose Sharks in hopes of getting his seat back in the NHL. As it turned out, nagging hip issues kept him off the ice in any capacity with the Sharks. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo He officially retired after that, and he is now signed up nowhere but also out of commission for over two years. What about Markus Nutivaara's hip surgery? Kärpät stated that Markus Nutivaara just underwent another serious surgery—this time to insert an artificial hip joint in November 2024. Having experienced pain-free rehabilitation, he has decided to give it a shot at returning to the sport that made him a sensation in both Finland and the NHL. Nutivaara entered the national radar during his first year in 2014–15 as a member of Kärpät, winning the Liiga championship. That team featured future NHLers Joonas Donskoi and teenage Sebastian Aho. Nutivaara accounted for six points in 16 playoff games that championship season. Also read: From Panthers to Prague: NHL forward Peter Mueller retires after 16-year rollercoaster across hockey's biggest stages Markus Nutivaara's return to Kärpät is more than a homecoming—it's a personal triumph after years of physical and mental hurdles. Whether he can return to competitive form remains to be seen, but his recovery from a series of major surgeries is already a win. As the Liiga season approaches, all eyes will be on Nutivaara's progress, making his comeback one of the most heartening storylines in European hockey this year. FAQs When was Markus Nutivaara born? 6 June 1994 Where is Markus Nutivaara from? Finland With which team did Markus Nutivaaramake his debut? Oulun Kärpät Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
2 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
From Panthers to Prague: NHL forward Peter Mueller retires after 16-year rollercoaster across hockey's biggest stages
NHL-Peter Mueller (Credit: Getty Images) After 16 seasons skating between North America and Europe, former NHL forward Peter Mueller has officially announced his retirement from professional ice hockey. While Mueller only spent five years in the National Hockey League (NHL) and played just one season with the Florida Panthers, his career extended far beyond the typical North American arc. The 36-year-old carved out a niche in European hockey. And earning both longevity and acclaim across several leagues. Peter Mueller goal 26 Jan 2013 Philadelphia Flyers vs Florida Panthers NHL Hockey Peter Mueller calls time on his career Mueller began his NHL journey in 2007 after being drafted 8th overall. By the Phoenix Coyotes. He thus made an immediate impact with 54 points in his rookie season. He later skated for the Colorado Avalanche and then joined the Florida Panthers for the lockout-shortened 2012–13 season, where he notched 8 goals and 9 assists in 43 games. Persistent injuries, however, kept him from securing a long-term NHL role. After logging 297 NHL games and scoring 63 goals, Mueller shifted focus to Europe in 2013. There, his career found new life. Former Florida Panthers forward ends pro journey In Europe, Mueller became a standout forward, particularly with HC Kometa Brno in the Czech Extraliga. He amassed over 200 goals and played more than 400 games overseas. And averaging more consistent ice time than in his later NHL years; across teams in Switzerland, Austria, Germany, and Sweden. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Mueller's offensive production and leadership proved invaluable. Despite NHL setbacks, Mueller found long-term success Despite the early promise of a long NHL run. It was Europe where Mueller found stability; his 16-year journey exemplifies a growing trend in professional hockey. And players using global opportunities to extend their careers and stay competitive at the highest levels. Off the rink, Mueller also had a decorated international stint. Earning a gold medal at the 2005 IIHF U18 World Championship with Team USA. And representing his country in multiple World Championship tournaments between 2008 and 2014. Peter Mueller's Hat Trick 11/7/07 FAQs Who is Peter Mueller? Peter Mueller is a former NHL and international hockey forward who played 16 seasons professionally. How long did Mueller play in the NHL? He played five seasons in the NHL, totaling 297 games. Where did Peter Mueller find success after the NHL? Mueller excelled in European leagues, especially with HC Kometa Brno in the Czech Republic, scoring over 200 goals. Why did Mueller retire? After a long and fruitful career that included overcoming injuries and thriving in Europe, Mueller chose to retire at age 36. Mueller's retirement marks the end of a unique career. That touched nearly every corner of professional hockey. From high-stakes NHL games to spirited European arenas. Also Read: Could the former Stanley Cup champion Evgeny Kuznetsov find new life with the Bruins, Canucks, or Avalanche? Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Aaron Ekblad, Seth Jones, and Gustav Forsling celebrate the Stanley Cup moment at the Coldplay Show
Panthers celebrate the Stanley Cup moment at the Coldplay Show (Image Via Twitter) Unleashing a hockey glory celebration at the Coldplay concert in Miami, Florida Panthers Aaron Ekblad, Seth Jones, and Gustav Forsling brought the Stanley Cup over to Hard Rock Stadium. This was indeed a moment to remember, for it was the first time the players appeared on the giant screen, creating an atmosphere louder than thunder from thousands of excited fans. What was supposed to be a peaceful night of great music ended up turning into a rollicking occasion choreographed by sports and entertainment under one roof in South Florida. Aaron Ekblad, Seth Jones, and Gustav Forsling take the stage with the Stanley Cup THE STANLEY CUP MEETS COLDPLAY Before the spotlight went on Coldplay, the concert was also a tribute to celebrate the Florida Panthers' recent Stanley Cup triumph. Defensemen Aaron Ekblad, Seth Jones, and Gustav Forsling could be seen chilling in and around the crowd, with the iconic trophy held high with pride. The trio received thunderous applause upon being shown on the big screen, with frontman Chris Martin going into the fun as well. He joked about Ekblad drinking from the Cup and then improvised a Panthers-themed ditty, thereby heightening the buzz in the air. Miami Night of sports, music, and unforgettable guests The charm of the night included not only playful moments onscreen but also a crossover of sports celebrities and entertainers. The Panthers' General Manager, Bill Zito, and VP of Player Engagement, Mike Huff, were there to revel in the celebration. Having made stops by the Florida Keys earlier that weekend, the Cup(s) turned out to be as much a draw as the performers themselves. Adding to the starry air was Lionel Messi , who appeared for a second on the stadium monitor with his wife and received a standing ovation from the Miami crowd. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Next on the Cup itinerary will be Ontario, where Jonah Gadjovich will share a day with hockey's most prestigious trophy. Also Read: Johnny Gaudreau's daughter Noa shines in white as a flower girl at Zach Werenski and Odette Pieters' romantic wedding Much more than a musical journey, the Coldplay concert had become a celebration for the Florida Panthers and their fans. From impromptu songs to surprise acts, it was a Miami night where hockey met harmony. FAQs Q1: Who brought the Stanley Cup to the Coldplay concert? Ans: The trophy was taken to the show by Aaron Ekblad, Seth Jones, and Gustav Forsling, players of the Florida Panthers. Q2: Did Coldplay mention the Panthers during the concert? Ans: Yes, Chris Martin joked about the Panthers and then sang a funny little ditty for them on stage. Q3: Where is the Stanley Cup going after Miami? Ans: From there, it shall set course for Whitby, Ontario, wherein Jonah Gadjovich shall lay claim to his once-in-a-lifetime day with the Cup. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
3 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
NHL injury update: Matthew Tkachuk's postponed surgery shadows Team USA's 2026 Olympics aspirations and Florida Panthers cap plan
Florida Panthers top scorer Matthew Tkachuk has left his Olympic aspirations and the salary cap plan of his team in limbo after putting off surgery on acute injuries he suffered in the Stanley Cup Final. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Matthew Tkachuk, who has said that he fought through a torn adductor and sports hernia during the Panthers' playoff championship, has not yet had the expected surgery to correct them, raising alarm for his return for the 2025–26 NHL season and the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. Matthew Tkachuk's injury wait creates alarm bells for Team USA and Florida Panthers Matthew Tkachuk's remarkable post-Stanley Cup announcement—that he played with a torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia—only served to add to the lore of the Florida Panthers' championship run. But more than a month later, the 27-year-old winger still has not had surgery, creating anxiety throughout the hockey world. The anticipated surgery was originally set shortly following the Panthers' Game 6 victory against the Edmonton Oilers. The procedure was most assuredly postponed, though, NHL insider Evan Renaerts says, by Matthew Tkachuk's recent wedding to Ellie Connell on July 19. With the Olympic Games scheduled for February, any prolonged recovery time means missing by mere weeks critical international preparation and participation. Matthew Tkachuk Brings The Stanley Cup Back to St. Louis for Second Straight Year Matthew Tkachuk played a key role in Florida's playoff run and has been a stalwart for the team. His ongoing absence may also hamper the team's start to the 2025–26 season, particularly with the Panthers already over the cap by $3.7 million. Salary cap relief of $9.5 million would be provided if he were placed on Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR), providing the front office with flexibility but also sparking controversy regarding salary cap morality. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Strategic play or dangerous delay? Tough choices loom for Florida Panthers According to NHL regulations, any player on LTIR has to miss at least 10 games or 24 calendar days. If the Florida Panthers start the season with Matthew Tkachuk missing, they might get immediate relief but would pay the cost in the long run. The organization might have to trade the likes of Evan Rodrigues or Jesper Boqvist to stay cap-compliant when Tkachuk can join them. This has raised eyebrows among insiders and fans who believe that the Panthers might be tactically withholding the surgery to skew cap space. The practice has drawn increasing criticism from the league, with many notable examples including past seasons involving other superstars such as Nikita Kucherov and Evander Kane. Also read: Some of the fans went to social media to raise concerns over the Olympics, and one of them wrote, 'Interesting to see if he still makes it to Milan then. It would be quite the story if he's not there with Brady.' Others were pessimistic, speculating a timely return just in time for the playoffs—a strategy that has sparked ethics issues in the NHL's application of LTIR loopholes. FAQs
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Teams Should Be All-In On Evan Rodrigues Trade As Panthers Face Cap Crunch
As the Florida Panthers look to shed $3.725 million before opening night, forward Evan Rodrigues has emerged as one of the most intriguing trade candidates on the market. With no trade protection and a team-friendly $3 million AAV through 2026-27, Rodrigues could be the perfect target for any team needing scoring depth, versatility and playoff experience.
