Mike Santorelli thrilled about next season in home with Florida Panthers – NHL offseason Update
Mike Santorelli, a 178th overall pick during round-six of the 2004 National Hockey League (NHL) Entry Draft by Nashville Predators, struggled to find his game with his original draft team when he was given a chance during the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010
seasons, but is now thrilled for starting the new season.
During his first NHL season, Santorelli played only seven games and was sent to their minor league affiliate in the American Hockey League (AHL), Milwaukee Admirals, with whom he contributed an impressive 70 points (27 goals, 43 assists) in 70 games.
Looking at his AHL statistics, Santorelli was given another chance in the major league by participated in 25 games with Nashville but failed again to impress as he managed only three points (2 goals, 1 assist) and ended up with a plus-minus rating of -8.
Without a second thought, Santorelli was dealt to Florida Panthers by Nashville during August of 2010 in exchange for a conditional fifth-round pick in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.
Fortunately for Santorelli, a 25-year-old centre player from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, he was given an immediate chance with the club and luckily, found his game by appearing in a complete, 82-game season and scoring a career high of 41 points
(20 goals, 21 assists), becoming known as a shooter and play-maker.
"I was so grateful for the opportunity the Florida staff gave me", Santorelli. "I think that was a big part of it. I was able to play with some really good players. At the same time, I just learned so much from everybody there -- not only the players, but
the staff and management. It felt really good early".
No matter how good of a season he had, Santorelli wants to continue his development as a player.
"It feels good", said Santorelli."But at the same time, there's another level I want to take it to. I think that was the mindset going into the summer".
Not only does Mike Santorelli hope for his improvement overall, but Florida is also very hopeful of a better season next time around after having one of their worst last time.
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