Kyle Okposo won't be in the Panthers' lineup for Game 6.
Kyle Okposo won't be in the Panthers' lineup for Game 6.
The Florida Panthers are looking to close the door on Friday night and capture their first-ever championship when the puck drops for Game 6 of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final in Edmonton.
Former New York Islanders forward Kyle Okposo, who joined Florida at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, will not be in the lineup, per NHL.com's George Richards.
The 36-year-old, who has played on the Panthers' fourth line, has just two assists in 16 postseason games, with no points in his last seven games.
Nick Cousins, who hasn't played since the Eastern Conference Final against the New York Rangers, will draw back in.
Okposo and the Panthers had the chance to sweep Edmonton after taking a 3-0 series lead, but Connor McDavid wouldn't allow that as he's helped the Oilers to two straight victories to stay alive.
Unfortunately, their failure to close the door has led to head coach Paul Maurice making this change and while Okposo will not be happy with the move, it's certainly one that's justified.
And let's be honest. Okposo, who may be hanging up the skates following this season after 1,051 regular season games over his 17-year NHL career, wants to win.
So, whether Okposo is on the ice celebrating or runs down from the press box and jumps on the ice, he'll be satisfied.
Puck drop for Game 6 is Friday night at 8 PM ET on ABC and ESPN+.