‘It’s just hockey’ to Florida Panthers rookie Spencer Knight

WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. — Florida Panthers rookie goalie (yeah, he’s still a rookie) Spencer Knight said when he takes the ice for a game it doesn’t matter if it’s an exhibition, rookie tournament or the Stanley Cup playoffs.

As Knight said numerous times last season, “it’s just hockey.”

Nothing seems to affect him.

Knight started his first ‘game’ for the Panthers Saturday since Game 6 against the Lightning a few miles down the road back in April.

Playing in the Lightning’s Prospect Showcase at the new Center Ice facility north of Tampa, Knight looked a lot like he did with the Panthers last season.

Although he gave up three goals (two off power plays) in a 3-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, Knight looked sharp throughout the game and helped keep Florida’s team of youngsters in it with 39 saves.

The result, when it comes to these kinds of things, does not matter.

In a few weeks, it will take Google searches to recall the scores.

For Knight, the work was what was important.

As it should be.