Balinskis embraces fatherhood as Panthers coach praises Vilmanis' progress

Florida Panthers defenseman Elvis Balinskis told American media about his summer spent with family after the birth of his daughter. He said becoming a father has been a fantastic experience and that he enjoys watching his daughter grow and learn new things every day.

Balinskis noted that around 80% of Panthers players have become fathers, with several babies born within the team over the past season. He views this positively, saying it will also benefit the children themselves by having many peers around them.

Roster additions and competition

Over the offseason, the Panthers kept their defensive core intact while adding two veterans — 36-year-old Czech defenseman Radko Gudas and 34-year-old Serbian-Canadian Aleksandar Petrovic. Balinskis acknowledged that, like every year, he must earn his spot on the roster, so he is working hard to show his best game at training camp.

Praise for Vilmanis

Balinskis spoke highly of fellow Latvian Sandis Vilmanis, noting his progress and expressing hope that he will earn a roster spot and spend a full season with the Panthers. Balinskis believes the experience Vilmanis gained last season at the Olympics, the World Championship and in the NHL has helped him adjust to the professional level.

An injury to veteran Brad Marchand gave Vilmanis the opportunity to prove himself on the team's third forward line during training camp, playing alongside Finns Eetu Luostarinen and Anton Lundell. Vilmanis said he is grateful for the chance to play alongside such experienced linemates, though he stressed that the opportunity must be earned through hard work.

Panthers head coach Paul Maurice praised Vilmanis, saying he is already confidently a top-nine caliber player and that the team doesn't need to wait years for him to become a meaningful contributor, as he can already provide value with his defensive play.