Spencer Knight returns from player-assistance program

For the first time since leaving the Florida Panthers for personal reasons in late February, goalie Spencer Knight answered questions from reporters on Wednesday. While the netminder was eager to discuss some of what the few months taught him, he did not go into detail on why he joined the NHL/NHLPA players’ assistance program, but said he was happy to be back at the IceDen as part of the team’s annual development camp.

“It has been great, just coming back down here and being in a familiar area,” Knight said. “I knew a couple of these guys already whether it was former teammates or guys I have played against. It’s good to see them, meet a few new faces. It’s a really good time here. … Seeing some familiar faces like trainers, coaches, the guys. It is fun. Honestly, what I think about hockey is the faces and the people. I think that gets overlooked when it is all said and done.”

Knight received special permission from the NHL to attend the development camp since that with parts of three NHL seasons under his belt, he was not eligible to participate.

The young goalie admitted how it felt great to be back with the team and return to organized hockey activities, and how he feels refreshed from his time in the assistance program.

“The one thing I’ve learned is that I’ve just got to be cool with whatever happens,” he said. “I go here? Great. If you’re there? Great. This happens? Great. That’s the approach I have to have because I know the skill I have and I don’t doubt that. The skill combined with my physical capability — I think I have tremendous skill and I think I can be one of the best goalies in this league. I’m still 22.”

We cannot wait to see Knight healthy and happy, and competing with the Panthers this upcoming season.

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