SUNRISE — Day after day, Patric Hornqvist slides on his gear and hits the ice with the rest of his Florida Panthers teammates.
He usually starts off by warming up one of the goalies who came out early.
Hornqvist, one of the most competitive players in the entire National Hockey League, goes through one practice after another with no idea whether he will ever get to suit up — for real — and play in an actual game again.
The two-time Stanley Cup champion last played on Dec. 3 in Seattle. Hornqvist was caught in the head by the elbow of Daniel Sprong in passing.
It was Hornqvist’s second concussion within the span of a month.
He has not played since.
Coach Paul Maurice continues to stress Hornqvist will not play again this season and Hornqvist confirmed that to FHN this week.
Yet here is Hornqvist, going hard each and every day to help his team prepare for what is next.
His dedication to the game and to his Panthers is why the Florida chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers’ Association nominated him for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy which goes to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.
Hornqvist was a natural choice to be nominated for the prestigious award even before this season happened. He certainly is today.
”It has been tough, obviously, with the injury I have,” Hornqvist told
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