Mikulas Hovorka Set for NHL Debut as Panthers Face Lightning
TAMPA - The Florida Panthers are turning to one of their promising young blueliners tonight, as 24-year-old Mikulas Hovorka is set to make his NHL debut against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Benchmark International Arena.
With both Tobias Bjornfot and Aaron Ekblad sidelined due to injury, the Panthers dipped into their AHL ranks and called up Hovorka from the Charlotte Checkers earlier today. Now, the 6-foot-6 Czech defenseman will get his first taste of NHL action in a high-stakes divisional matchup.
“He’s a big man and he’s got a long stick,” head coach Paul Maurice said ahead of the game. “He moves well. I’d categorize him more as a puck-mover than necessarily a banger, but he’s rounded that part of his game out with Charlotte.”
And that evolution in his game has been key. While Hovorka may not be the most physical presence on the ice despite his towering frame, he’s shown steady growth in the AHL, especially in his second season with Charlotte.
After putting up 10 points (3 goals, 7 assists) in 60 games last year, he’s already matched that total in just 30 games this season - including 2 goals and 8 assists. That kind of production from the back end, combined with a team-best +14 rating, made him a natural choice for the call-up.
Originally signed by Florida in April 2024 on a two-year entry-level deal, Hovorka came to North America after two seasons with Motor Ceske Budejovice in the Czech Extraliga, where he posted 22 points across 90 games. While he’s still waiting for his NHL debut, his résumé already includes meaningful pro experience.
“He’s played some pro hockey, and he’s played against men,” Maurice added. “It does help, especially for those bigger defensemen. The reads are the most important thing, being able to pick up the speed of the game, and he’s had some time [to learn that].”
That adjustment period - learning how to read the game at a faster pace, handle forechecks under pressure, and make clean exits - is often the toughest hurdle for young defensemen. But Hovorka’s shown he’s up to the challenge. His skating and puck-moving ability have stood out at the AHL level, and he’s started to blend in some physicality to round out his game.
At 6-foot-6 and 229 pounds, Hovorka doesn’t need to throw big hits every shift to make his presence felt. His reach alone can disrupt passing lanes, and if he continues to move the puck efficiently, he could carve out a role in Florida’s defensive rotation - especially with injuries testing the team’s depth.
“We’re excited,” Maurice said. “We think he’s got a future with the team.”
Tonight’s matchup against the Lightning will be a trial by fire - Tampa Bay’s forward group is no joke, and they’ll be sure to test the rookie early. But for Hovorka, it’s a chance to show he belongs. He’s put in the work in Charlotte, sharpened his reads, and now he’ll step onto NHL ice for the first time with an opportunity to prove he can hang with the best.
It’s a big moment for the young blueliner - and a glimpse at what could be a key piece of Florida’s future on defense.