Panthers Forward Set To Make Season Debut

Florida Panthers head coach Andrew Brunette confirmed to reporters that Noel Acciari is set to make his season debut on Friday night against the Minnesota Wild.

Acciari has been out for the entirety of this season due to a shoulder injury that required surgery. It was initially believed that the 30-year-old would be out until April, but thankfully, he is all set and ready to go much earlier than that.

At this point of the season, the Panthers have a 33-10-5 record and are at the top of the Atlantic Division. They have been extremely dominant all season, but they certainly aren't going to be complaining about getting Acciari back. He's a very important part of their penalty kill and is capable of providing solid scoring in the bottom six. His 2019-20 campaign is particularly memorable, as he had 20 goals and seven helpers in 66 contests.

Acciari is expected to slot onto the team's fourth line at right wing. That's another great aspect of his game - he's capable of playing both center and on the wing.

Nevertheless, it is exciting to hear that the hard-working forward is finally coming back to the lineup. Here's to hoping he gets on the scoresheet.