Getty Images Training camps are finally underway, but the Florida Panthers were missing a key piece of their puzzle on Sunday.
Dmitry Kulikov was a restricted free agent going into the lockout and decided to play for KHL Yaroslavl Lokomotiv during the work stoppage. Panthers GM Dale Tallon has been in talks with the 22-year-old defenseman’s agent, but Kulikov is reportedly still in Russia, according to the Miami Herald.
Panthers coach Kevin Dineen expects Tallon to offer clarification in the not too distant future.
“I’m a big Dmitry fan,” Dineen said. “I thought he really did a good job. He’s very young in his development. Defensemen take a little time to develop, same as goalies. He’s really on track and is a player we envision having a long and successful NHL career.”
Kulikov had four goals and 28 points in 58 games with Florida in 2011-12. He also averaged 21:51 minutes per contest and got a healthy amount of ice time with the man advantage.
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“(Gillis’) fault all the way.”
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Additionally, Chicago will play Detroit and the Kings will host the Sharks.
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Thursday’s collection of links
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They rank first and second in shorthanded goals in the 2013 playoffs.
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It initially made it look like he suffered an injury.
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AHL Bruins blow 3-0 series lead against Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins
May 22, 2013, 11:40 PM EDT
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Trent Whitfield has now been on the wrong end of history twice.
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Video: Sens coach won’t take questions, refers press to game sheet
May 22, 2013, 10:59 PM EDT
John Tortorella would be proud.
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The Penguins “have too much depth.”
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Ottawa’s strong first period was wasted.
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Report: NHLPA director Fehr wants to address issue of fighting
May 22, 2013, 9:02 PM EDT
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He’s been reaching out to agents and players.
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Mike Halford and Jason Brough tackle that question.
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He also wants to express his gratitude to the Vancouver Canucks.
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AP
Beau Bennett and Jussi Jokinen have been inserted into the lineup.
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Two swift playoff exits sunk the Canucks’ coach.
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His career has gone downhill since being part of the Hodgson trade.
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AP
Vancouver’s Alain Vigneault joins the fray.
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“As long as they keep winning here, that just gives me a better chance for a return with every win.”
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“Will we look at them? Absolutely.”
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Pittsburgh’s power play is just 1-for-12 in its past two games.
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Official: Canucks fire head coach Vigneault, assistants Bowness and Brown
May 22, 2013, 3:48 PM EDT
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Vancouver cleans house.
