Florida Panthers Terminate Tryout of Ben Harpur
The Florida Panthers have made the decision to terminate the professional tryout of defenseman Ben Harpur, who previously played for the New York Rangers. This move comes as the regular season approaches, leaving Harpur without a contract and an unrestricted free agent.
Harpur’s Recent Performance
Initially signed by the Panthers in September of this year, Harpur was looking to secure a spot on the team’s roster for the upcoming season. His recent history in the NHL includes a notable stint with the Rangers during the 2022-2023 season, where he managed to score a goal and assist on five others, totaling six points. Additionally, he contributed defensively with 57 blocks and 63 hits, finishing that season with an even plus/minus rating.
Career Overview
Throughout the past three seasons, Harpur has been predominantly associated with the Rangers, spending significant time with their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack. During the current season, he participated in seven games, where he managed one goal and three points, but ended with a minus-1 rating. The previous season saw him play 29 games with Hartford, contributing one goal and accumulating five points, while also spending a considerable amount of time in the penalty box, totaling 48 minutes, and finishing that campaign with a minus-4 rating.
Future Prospects
As the Panthers part ways with Harpur, the hockey community is left wondering whether he will find an opportunity to sign with another NHL team before the season officially commences. Over the course of his seven-year NHL career, Harpur has played in 198 games, recording a total of two goals and 21 points, along with 317 hits while wearing the jerseys of the Ottawa Senators, Nashville Predators, and the Rangers.
