Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
The Florida Panthers might be catching Carolina at the right time as they prepare for a quick rematch.
On Monday, the Hurricanes announced that forward Seth Jarvis and defenseman Jaccob Slavin are both considered week to week with upper-body injuries. The timing is notable, with Florida set to visit Raleigh on Tuesday night, looking to bounce back after a tough loss in St. Louis.
Jarvis has been one of Carolina's most dangerous offensive drivers this season. His speed, forecheck pressure, and finishing touch make him a constant threat in transition. Removing him from the lineup strips the Hurricanes of a key scoring element and a player who consistently tilts the ice.
Slavin's absence may be even more impactful structurally. Widely regarded as one of the NHL's best shutdown defensemen, Slavin anchors Carolina's defensive matchups and penalty kill. Without him, the Hurricanes lose a stabilizing presence against top lines and a defender trusted in late-game situations.
For Florida, that matters. The Panthers have leaned heavily on their top two lines and need any edge they can find after a demanding stretch of games. Missing two cornerstone Hurricanes shifts the matchup landscape, especially with Florida entering the game rested after canceled practices and extra recovery time.
Florida Panthers gain opportunity against depleted Hurricanes
Tactically, the absence of Jarvis could reduce Carolina's transition speed. Florida struggled at times against quick-strike teams earlier this season, but without Jarvis driving lanes, the Hurricanes may be forced into more controlled entries. That plays into Florida's strength of stacking bodies and forcing dump-ins.
The Panthers also bring confidence into this building. They erased a three-goal deficit to beat Carolina just days ago, and that belief doesn't disappear overnight. Paul Maurice has emphasized recovery and reset, and this matchup arrives with Florida physically fresher than it was last weekend.
Rod Brind'Amour-coached teams rarely fold, and Carolina's depth will be tested rather than exposed. The Hurricanes will simplify, lean on structure, and try to grind.
But there's no question the door is cracked. With two impact players sidelined, Florida has a chance to dictate pace early and seize momentum before the holiday break.
This is the type of game that rewards preparation and urgency. For the Panthers, the opportunity is there. The question is whether they take it.