Haapala spent five games with the Panthers and even saw some power-play one time, but picked up just one assist during that time. Haapala returns to the AHL where he has seven points (2G / 5A) in 11 games with Springfield.
Haapala picked up one assist while averaging 13:42 TOI/GM in his first five games with the Panthers. With the Panthers getting healthier up front, he will sit for the second straight contest.
Haapala came over from Finland this offseason and was originally expected to make the Panthers roster, but opened the season in Springfield, where he has two goals and five assists in 11 games. Haapala will make his NHL debut on a line with Vincent Trocheck and Nick Bjugstad.