Up front, Ben Steeves led the Checkers in goals (23), points (45), power-play goals (9) and penalty minutes (100).
In his first full pro season, Panthers 2022 seventh-round pick (221st overall) Jack Devine ranked second in goals (18), points (43), and power play goals (4) and first in assists (25).
On the blue line, Mike Benning led all Charlotte defensemen in goals (8), assists (23) and points (31).
Benning’s 23 assists also ranked second among all skaters on the team.
Playing the final 18 regular season games with the Panthers, Benning recorded six points (2G, 4A) and averaged 16:54 time on ice per tilt during his first taste of action in the NHL.
“Every game is a new learning experience for me,” Benning said of his extended call-up. “Whether it’s from the coaches or even the vets on the team, everyone’s talking to you. Even if you just watch them and take a piece out of every game, you learn something new.”
Between the pipes, Cooper Black has backstopped the Checkers all season.
Owning a 25-13-4 record, the 6-foot-8 goaltender posted a .903 save percentage and 2.47 goals against average.
His 25 wins ranked fourth amongst goalies in the AHL and tied for fourth most in franchise history.
Stay tuned to @CheckersHockey on X for more updates throughout the playoffs.
SCHEDULE
Game 1: Wednesday, April 22 | 7 p.m. ET | Bojangles Coliseum
Game 2: Friday, April 24 | 7 p.m. ET | Bojangles Coliseum
Game 3: Saturday, April 25 | 7 p.m. ET | Bojangles Coliseum*
\if necessary*
CALDER CUP PLAYOFFS FORMAT
First Round: Best-of-three
Division Semifinals: Best-of-five
Division Finals: Best-of-five
Conference Finals: Best-of-seven
Calder Cup Finals: Best-of-seven