Sun Sep 15 12:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Florida Panthers Prospects Split at Rookie Showcase

**TAMPA, FL** – The Florida Panthers prospects concluded their 2024 NHL Rookie Showcase with a 1-1 record after dropping a 7-3 decision to the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday. The Panthers, who had previously defeated the Nashville Predators in their opening game, face the Tampa Bay Lightning in the tournament finale on Monday.

Despite the loss, forward Hunter St. Martin continued his strong showing, scoring his second goal of the tournament. St. Martin, a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, has impressed Florida’s AHL Head Coach Geordie Kinnear with his composure and playmaking ability.

“His composure, for a young guy,” Kinnear commented, “You play against the Hurricanes, for example, they don’t give you a lot of space and you still have to be able to make plays. I thought he had, for two games, he’s been a real positive and you can see the growth.”

St. Martin, who spent the past three seasons with the Western Hockey League’s Medicine Hat Tigers, is focusing on both on-ice and off-ice development as he transitions to a professional career.

“A lot of the things I’m learning are actually off the ice,” St. Martin explained, “Taking care of your body, nutrition, cooling down, making sure you’re ready for the next day, not getting hurt and obviously learning from all the pro coaches as well. Just showing up and being your best every day.”

The Carolina Hurricanes remain undefeated in the tournament with a 2-0 record, while Nashville and Tampa Bay are both 1-1-0 after a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory by the Predators on Saturday.

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