There are also plans, at some point, to add a Spanish-language broadcast option for Panthers games, which would open even more doors in South Florida given the enormous Latino population.
And, without revealing specifics, the Panthers said they are satisfied with what the move will mean in terms of new revenue streams created by getting the games in front of more people.
“We look forward to an unprecedented amount of support and attention on hockey in Florida as we move forward,” Panthers President Matthew Caldwell said.
One of 39 prospects attending this week’s development camp at Baptist Health IcePlex, the 20-year-old forward is focused on doing whatever he can to prepare for pro hockey.
“This summer is definitely the biggest summer I’ve had so far in my career,” Vilmanis said after the first day of camp on Monday.
“I have to get stronger. I have to get faster. I have to get smarter on the ice.
It’s thinking more about all of the small details and putting work in.”
Originally selected by the Florida Panthers in the fifth round (157th overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft, Vilmanis entered this summer on the heels of his best campaign to date in the OHL.
In 60 games split between the Sarnia Sting and North Bay Battalion, the dynamic Latvian tallied 67 points (38 goals, 29 assists) in 60 regular-season games.
After being traded to North Bay in January, he went on a heater for the ages, lighting the lamp 28 times in just 30 contests.
In 16 playoff games with the Battalion, he racked up 27 points (10 goals, 17 assists).
When asked about his breakout, Vilmanis said it came down to trust from his coaches.
With North Bay, he played in all situations and skated more than 20 minutes per tilt.
“It’s a big, big, big step up for me,” Vilmanis said of reaching new heights in 2023-24.
“This past season, I gained a lot of confidence in me.
A lot of guys helped me in North Bay, off and on the ice.
I just have to keep working and try to do my best to get to the pro level.”
