The Florida Panthers have assigned forward Jared McCann to the AHL’s Springfield Thunderbirds, the team announced Monday.
In doing so, the Panthers have opened up a roster spot for forward Nick Bjugstad, who has been out since the pre-season with a broken hand and was activated from injured reserve on Monday.
McCann, who came over from the Vancouver Canucks in the Erik Gudbranson trade last May, has struggled to find consistent ice time this season, and has only three points (one goal, two assists) in 17 games played for the Panthers.
The 20-year-old will not have to clear waivers and should be able to find more consistent ice time in Springfield.
Meanwhile, Bjugstad, who has 116 points (56 goals, 60 assists) in 226 career NHL games played, should provide the Panthers with an offensive boost.
The Panthers (10-8-1) will host the Philadelphia Flyers (8-8-3) on Tuesday.
