Observations:

June 2013 – Panik has had a whale of sophomore season as a pro. He posted 41 points (22 goals), positive 17 rating, with 81 PIMs in 51 AHL games, and added another nine points (five goals) in 25 NHL games. In the post season thus far he has eight points (four goals) and 29 PIMs in 10 games on his way to the Calder Cup finals. It would be extremely difficult for the Lightning to keep him off a top nine role for next season. Managers should look to get their hands on him if possible as he has good upside to bounce into regular offensive role and post good numbers for the Bolts in the near future. Jason Banks

February 2013 - There's no sophomore slump here, as Panik has raised his game to a new level this season. Panik's 21 goals through 43 games has already bested his rookie mark of 19 goals in 64 games. Panik was named to the AHL's Eastern Conference all-star team and earned his first call up with Tampa Bay on February 12th. Randy Buschmann

May 2012 – Panik is a very promising offensive forward for the Lightning. He is highly skilled with size, speed, and can be a constant scoring threat at any level. The downfall with Panik is that this offensively gifted forward will need to learn how to play defense more consistently in the pros. He represented Team Slovakia at the U20 WJCs for three straight tournaments (2009-11). The slick skating European finished a fairly successful rookie campaign in the AHL and will compete for spot in training camp with Tampa Bay, but will most likely get some more seasoning in Norfolk.

Fantasy Outlook: B

Panik could become a top-six forward with a scoring touch, ala Marian Gaborik. With the Lightning starting to turn over their roster, he should assume a role in 2013-14 and be drafted as a middle of the road prospect with upside that is ready to contribute now.

Footage:

Richard panic scores overtime game-winning goal with Admirals (AHL) on 5/11/2012.

Fantasy Prospects Report Notes (Any FPR's released in the last 18 months will not be listed here):

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Richard Panik statistics courtesy of Elite Prospects

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