“Sad but True”: NHL World Prays for the Speedy Recovery of 21-Year-Old Sensation Set to Receive Care From Assistance Program

On Friday, fans of the NHL team Florida Panthers received some concerning news about their team’s goaltender Spencer Knight. The NHL and the Players’ Association announced that the 21-year-old ice hockey player would be absent from the Florida Panthers team lineup, for an indefinite period. Knight is a promising player and has performed consistently throughout his fledgling career. However, the Panthers player will be under the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program and won’t play any games.

Spencer Knight is one of the three goalies on the Florida Panthers roster. In his second season, the Connecticut native has played 21 games. He has posted a 9-8-3 record, with a 3.18 goals-against average and a .901 save percentage. However, for now, Spencer Knight’s future remains unclear.

What does the future hold for 21-year-old Spencer Knight?

Knight will receive care under the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program and will not return to the ice unless the assistance program administrators deem him fit for on-ice competition. However, the young talent will continue to receive his pay for the time spent in care. Earlier this week, the Panthers sent the Connecticut native to the American Hockey League team Charlotte Checkers.

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The team did this to clear salary-cap space for forward Anthony Duclair’s season debut. Duclair is returning to the Panthers after recovering from an Achilles tendon tear. So far, Spencer Knight has performed consistently. In 57 appearances, Knight has a 2.91 GAA, .906 SP, and three shutouts.

The player assistance program began in 1996 and helps athletes and their families deal with personal issues like mental health, substance abuse, counseling, and more. Unless the 21-year-old decides to do so, no further information regarding his case will be made public.

The NHL world rallies behind Spencer Knight

While no one knows the complete picture, it hasn’t kept fans on social media from speculating, showing concern, and above all, wishing the 21-year-old from Connecticut a speedy recovery.

“I’m glad it’s about getting access to confidential help. Smh. God bless him whatever he’s facing.”

“I hate to see this but glad he’s getting the help he needs.”

“Hope he overcomes his issues.”

“We just had Verna go through that up here in Detroit. Wishing him a good recovery.”

“Helluva program and they’re looking out for their own. God bless him and them.”

“Stay focused on getting well!”

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While fans wish him the best, only time will tell when they will see Spencer Knight back on the ice.