Stephen Weiss Returns After Missing Two Games

According to George Richards of The Miami Herald, via Twitter, Weiss will play tonight.

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Weiss skated with the team this morning and is a good bet to get back on the ice tonight. However, coach Kevin Dineen informed the team’s website that he will dress an extra forward and make the final decision during warm ups. Check back for an update on Weiss prior to game time.

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UPDATE 12/29/11: More good news on the Florida Panthers injury front. According to Harvey Fialkov of The Sun-Sentinel, via Twitter, Weiss could return as soon as tomorrow, when the Cats host the New York Rangers.

Expect another status update prior to Friday’s 7:30 EST puck drop.

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UPDATE 12/28/11: Finally, Stephen Weiss has returned to the ice according to George Richards of On Frozen Pond. Richards noted that Weiss could return this weekend or shortly after.

The original prognosis explained Weiss would be out through the remainder of the calendar year which keeps the should-be center on track. Check back for a further update on the team’s first line center.

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UPDATE 12/27/11: Four days have passed and Stephen Weiss still has not skated with the team. The top line center is listed as doubtful for tonight’s match with the Toronto Maple Leafs according to George Richards of The Miami Herald, via Twitter. Sounds like Weiss could be out through the New Year.

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12/23/11: In last night’s gutsy 4-3 overtime loss to the Ottawa Senators, the Florida Panthers were able to survive without their top player. Second leading scorer and expected captain Stephen Weiss only mustered together 3:03 of ice time, a far cry from his typical 20:36. Somehow, the team was able to keep the game tight and come out with a point.

The Cats may need to survive for a few more games without Weiss as Harvey Fialkov of The Sun-Sentinel notes Weiss could be sidelined through the Holidays. Including tonight the team plays four games through January 5th which could give the Toronto native enough time to heal his current ‘upper-body injury’. While Fialkov noted head coach Kevin Dineen was optimistic about his number one center, he also explained that Weiss could probably use some added rest.

Mark Cullen was recalled this morning from the San Antonio Rampage and is expected to play tonight. (Ed. Note: According to George Richard of The Miami Herald, via Twitter, Cullen could not get into Boston in time. Keaton Ellerby will dress as the seventh defenseman). Last night, Mike Santorelli replaced Weiss on the first line while Tomas Kopecky took his place on the first power play unit. For the projected lines for tonight’s game, click here.