Florida Panthers aim to feature Sandis Vilmanis in expanded role

The Florida Panthers intend to utilize Sandis Vilmanis as a key player during the upcoming season. Following a productive last season where he played 19 NHL games and performed well in the AHL, Vilmanis is positioned on the team's third line alongside Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen. With Brad Marchand sidelined for at least a month, Vilmanis has an opportunity to demonstrate his skills further. Panthers coach Paul Maurice emphasized Vilmanis's defensive capabilities while expressing confidence in his offensive potential. The Panthers continue their preseason with a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight, and Vilmanis’s performance will be closely monitored as the regular season approaches.

• 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Florida Panthers Ready to Unleash Sandis Vilmanis