Carter Verhaeghe Reflects on Busy Summer and Upcoming NHL Season

FORT LAUDERDALE — A shortened summer appears to be the best kind for Florida Panthers forward Carter Verhaeghe, following an unforgettable off-season marked by significant personal achievements.

“It’s been a great summer,” Verhaeghe remarked. “After winning and getting married, it’s been nothing but an awesome summer. A lot of achievements, accomplishments, and it just feels really good.”

The summer’s excitement did not distract Verhaeghe from preparing for the upcoming season. Despite a bustling off-season filled with celebrations, including enjoying his day with the Stanley Cup in Dundas, Ontario, Verhaeghe has managed to reach peak physical form.

“I think Carter is as fit as he’s ever been right now,” Paul Maurice, the head coach of the Florida Panthers, stated. Such comments are likely to weigh heavily on the minds of opposing goalkeepers as the new season approaches.

Building on a career-high 17:58 of average ice time per game last season, Verhaeghe is determined to claim his third Stanley Cup. His dedication is evident even after enduring a rigorous training camp.

“It is what it is,” Verhaeghe acknowledged regarding the demanding camp. “It sometimes sucks when you’re in it, but I think everyone knows it’s going to pay off in a couple weeks or down the road, whether it’s middle of season or playoffs.”

Over the past two seasons, Verhaeghe has scored 76 goals, becoming an integral part of the Panthers’ potent top line alongside Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart.

“We have so many good players on our team,” Verhaeghe added. “Starting with the captain in Barky (Barkov), he’s a phenomenal player. I’m just fortunate to play alongside him.”

Last season saw Verhaeghe achieve nearly a point-per-game rate with 72 points, underlining his importance within the team’s top-six forwards. As the Panthers welcome back all eight of their top scorers from the previous season, there is a palpable sense of readiness to chase another championship.

“We’ve been there, done it and know what it takes,” Verhaeghe said as the Panthers gear up for another campaign. “We’re focusing on the goal this year to do it again.”

Entering his fifth season with the Panthers, where he has amassed 236 points in 278 games, Verhaeghe expresses a deep connection to the team and its community.

“I love playing here,” he concluded. “It’s like my home now. I love being a Panther and playing here. The organization has been nothing but first class since I came here.”