Unpacking "Panthers Uncaged": What We Learned from Episode 2

Welcome to the second installment of "Unpacking Panthers Uncaged" where we take a closer look into this week's "Panthers Uncaged," presented by Lexus. Let this serve as your spoiler warning, Cats fans - if you haven't watched the episode two, check it out below.

THINGS WE LEARNED

1.The Panthers IceDen is operating a little differently these days.

As the world adjusts to a new reality with COVID-19, Florida's practice facility in Coral Springs has made some key changes to ensure the protection of the team's players, staff, and media.

In line with the NHL's Return to Play protocol, the Panthers IceDen has been undergoing rigorous cleanings on a regular basis during Phase 2 in order to keep the facility as sanitized as possible. Coupled with the implementation of strict modifications to places such as locker rooms, eating areas and work stations, the organization has made it clear that safety is the No. 1 priority right now.

"There's a lot of processes that we go through in order to make sure that safety is taken into consideration," Panthers Head Athletic Trainer Dave Dinapoli said.

But even before the team could even think about returning to the ice, each player had to partake in and pass a saliva-based test for COVID-19.

Once all the tests returned negative, players began to enter the adjusted Panthers IceDen. Upon arrival, each player now has their temperature checked before being allowed to enter the building.

Additionally, players and staff must wear face coverings at all times, and social distancing markers have been installed to guide foot traffic safely around the rink.

"It's definitely different," Panthers forward Noel Acciari says of these new procedures. "But once you jump on that ice it's a just great feeling to be back out there."

2.Captain Barkov's ambition is unparalleled.

You don't get a "C" on your chest unless you have the work ethic to match it.

For years, Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov has proven over and over again that he's one of the hardest working players in the National Hockey League.

It's this unwavering drive to be the best that sets the tone for the rest of his teammates.

"He's our best player, there's no doubt about it," defenseman Aaron Ekblad said of Barkov. "He's our captain, our leader. He leads by example in the gym and on the ice."

With the ice now accessible, Barkov wasted no time getting to work. Skipping the warm-up phase and diving straight into an exhausting bag skate, Barkov, who spent more of his first day back at the rink working alone, was filmed skating in rapid succession until he finally had to take a moment to catch his breath. A visual testament to his impeccable speed, endurance, passion and heart.

"I know every Panthers fan and every player on our team is picturing in their mind Barky holding the Stanley Cup," Ekblad remarked.

As any player who has won the Stanley Cup will say, it takes a lot of hard work - and more than a few skates up and down the ice - to be crowned champion.

3.Chase Priskie's father was a cook for the Panthers.

Defenseman Chase Priskie is a South Florida native, but his connection to the Panthers is closer than it may seem at first glance.

Acquired at the trade deadline in February, Priskie knows what wearing a Cats sweater means.

"Being a Florida Panther is something extremely special to me," Priskie said. "My dad worked at BB&T Center. He was one of the cooks for the team," he continued. "So I spent a lot of time hearing from him about the team, and then spent a lot of time at the arena when he was working. [I would watch] games."

"I must've seen two, three, four hundred Panther games. It's crazy how things kind of come full circle. It's never something I imagined, but to be living it…is 'living the dream', as people would say."

BONUS: 4. The Dog of Thunder is a good dog.

You didn't really think we were going to publish this article without mentioning Thor Acciari, did you?

The Dog of Thunder came along to see what COVID-19 testing was going to be like for the Panthers and to spread some paws-itivity during these uncertain times.

"It was a good family ride," Thor's dog dad, Noel, said.

To absolutely no one's surprise, the golden retriever is a hit.

"I know Yands' kids love seeing Thor," Acciari said with a hockey smile.

BEST MOMENT

What's the old saying? When the Head Cat is away….the hybrid parks in his spot?

GIF OF THE EPISODE

You may have seen CATS on Broadway, but Cats on ice is WAY better in our opinion. The team smiling, skating, and shooting is a sight we've been waiting months to see.

NEXT TIME ON "PANTHERS UNCAGED"

On the next episode of "Panthers Uncaged," the team continues to put in work at the Panthers IceDen. Get an all-access pass to the players as they prepare on and off the ice to face the New York Islanders in Toronto for the upcoming Qualifying Round.

Episode Three of "Panthers Uncaged" is coming soon. In the meantime, relive all the action from episode one Video: Panthers Uncaged: Episode 2.

To keep up with all things Florida Panthers, check out Video: Panthers Uncaged: Episode 2.