Kulikov was missing from Friday's practice and will not play Saturday against Vancouver. Kulikov, who is expected to be ready for the playoffs, will be replaced by William Lagesson in the lineup on Saturday.
Despite practicing most of the week, Verhaeghe will not play Saturday vs. the Lightning. Head coach Joel Quenneville said that if it were Game 1 of the playoffs that Verhaeghe would be in. With their playoff seed ready locked up, there's no sense rushing Verhaeghe back.
Bennett missed the Panthers' most recent game (05/03) but will be back on the second line tonight vs. the Lightning. Bennett has been outstanding since arriving in Florida, scoring five goals with eight assists (13 points) in nine games.
Bennett will not be available for Monday's game vs. the Stars. This is terrible timing for Bennett, who has been red-hot since being traded to Florida. Alex Wennberg will move up to the second line and Mason Marchment will draw back into the lineup to replace him.
Kulikov has cleared COVID-19 protocol and is eligible to make his Oilers' debut on Monday. Kulikov, who has just two assists in 38 games this season, is expected to replace Kris Russell and skate on the second pair with Adam Larsson.
Verhaeghe is set to miss his sixth straight game on Thursday and he's not expected to play until the Panthers' next homestand, which doesn't start until May 3rd. On Thursday, Patric Hornqvist will skate on the top line to be the latest player to replace Verhaeghe in that role.
Bjornfot has missed the last eight games with an undisclosed injury but will play Tuesday vs. the Ducks. Bjornfot has no goals and four assists in 19 games this season.
Bennett was acquired from Calgary on Monday and will make his Panthers debut tonight in Tampa. Bennett will centre the second line with Jonathan Huberdeau and Anthony Duclair on his wings. Bennett has 12 points (4G / 8A) in 38 games this season.
