Florida signed Balinskis over the summer after a strong career playing professionally in Europe
The Florida Panthers made a roster move on Friday, loaning defensemen Uvis Balinskis to the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers.
Balinskis, who is on an entry-level contract, was waivers exempt and therefore could be to sent directly to Charlotte without Florida risking him being claimed by another team.
Signed out of the Czech Extraliga earlier this year, Balinskis arrived in South Florida as a unknown commodity but quickly proved his worth to the Panthers coaching staff and front office.
He made the opening night roster and played well, producing solid defensive metrics despite playing his first games in North America, let alone the NHL.
But it was always going to be a numbers game.
With the health of Aaron Ekblad and Brandon Montour came a ripple effect that left a couple of Florida blueliners in a precarious position.
Mike Reilly was waived with the intent of him reporting to Charlotte, but he was claimed by the New York Islanders.
Now, with Josh Mahura nearing a return from Injured Reserve, another roster move was expected.
Panthers coach Paul Maurice has said that he would like the team to carry 13 forwards and seven defenseman on the active roster.
With Mahura eventually coming off IR, there would have been eight blueliners.
Balinskis, a healthy scratch for Florida’s past three games, was the next odd man out.
Considering how well he was received by the Panthers coaches and staff, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him offered a contract extension sometime in the coming months so that he can continue his career with Florida.
For now, the 27-year-old will hone his craft in Charlotte.
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