AJ Greer might not be the most recognizable player in the Florida Panthers’ lineup, but his presence is missing on the fourth line. Greer, Jonah Gadjovich, and Tomas Nosek form a formidable line that gave the Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes fits in the last two rounds.
After missing Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Final and the first two games of the Stanley Cup Final, Greer looks ready to return for Game 3 against the Edmonton Oilers.
Paul Maurice confirmed to reporters after the morning skate that Greer will slot back in on the fourth line, with Jesper Boqvist coming out of the lineup. Boqvist’s insertion over the last three games has put the lines in a blender, and the head coach will be happy to get some form of consistency with his forward groupings.
Boqvist played less than ten minutes in the first two games of this series, as he was unable to continue his success from Game 4 of the East final, when he recorded a goal and two assists. He has performed well for the Panthers in limited opportunities, but consistency has been an issue.
Greer might not bring that kind of offensive upside, but he is a player that Maurice knows he can win games with. Florida has an outstanding 10-2 record in the postseason with Greer in the lineup, as his blend of speed and tenacity makes him a playoff performer.
The Panthers hope Greer can get that record to 11-2, as the team looks to take a 2-1 lead in the series on Monday night.
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