Without a first-round draft pick since 2021 due to trades aimed at strengthening their roster, Florida Panthers’ General Manager Bill Zito has turned to other strategies to find top talent.
The Panthers have explored every available avenue—ranging from the usual suspects like waivers and college free agents to aggressive trades and signings through free agency. Additionally, they’ve made substantial efforts to scout international talent, particularly in Europe, with pro scouts scouring the continent in search of hidden gems.
Florida’s extensive investment in scouting and player signings could yield significant returns. Among those prospects are towering 6-foot-6 defenseman Mikulas Hovorka and forward Oliver Okuliar, both of whom recently joined the team’s rookie squad for this weekend’s Rookie Showcase in Nashville, hosted by the Predators.
While these two players are expected to begin their North American professional careers with the Panthers’ AHL affiliate, the Charlotte Checkers, their performance during the showcase and upcoming training camp may prompt tough decisions for Florida’s management. Both Hovorka and Okuliar bring years of professional hockey experience, making them stand out from their younger, less experienced peers.
Checkers head coach Geordie Kinnear, who will be guiding the Panthers’ prospect team during the showcase, noted the benefits of their experience. “They should have composure and be able to slow the game down mentally,” he said. However, Kinnear emphasized the need for adjustment to the North American style of play and head coach Paul Maurice’s system, which could take some time for these players to fully adapt to.
Okuliar, 24, has already made efforts to settle into his new surroundings. After attending the Panthers’ July development camp, he spent the last month in Fort Lauderdale, training with the team and getting acclimated to life in North America. The Slovakian winger, who previously played for Mountfield HK in the Czech Extraliga, mentioned that the transition has been challenging, particularly adapting to the physicality of the smaller ice surface and adjusting to new drills and routines.
“I’ve been here for about a month now, practicing with the guys, getting used to everything,” said Okuliar. “It’s been a great experience. Playing against older players in Europe has definitely helped me build up my game.”
As the Panthers gear up for their official training camp next Thursday, several prospects from the Nashville showcase will be vying for spots on a crowded roster. While only a handful have a realistic shot of making the team, Okuliar and Hovorka could improve their chances with strong performances. Their play in these crucial three games will be closely monitored by the team’s decision-makers as they finalize the roster ahead of the Panthers’ season opener on October 8 against the Boston Bruins.
Okuliar knows the stakes: “It’s on me to perform well. My focus is on the game and helping the team. If I get the opportunity, I’ll be ready for it 100 percent.”
The Panthers’ efforts in Europe have already paid dividends. In 2023, they signed defenseman Uvis Balinskis from the Czech Extraliga. Balinskis, then 26, impressed at training camp, made his NHL debut, and contributed to the Panthers’ Stanley Cup run. He is expected to play an even more significant role this season.
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