The Panthers’ battered defensive staff received a boost yesterday as Jassen Cullimore signed a one year contract to join the Panthers. Cullimore, who is 36, signed a one way deal that pays him his full NHL salary even if he is sent to the minors, though don’t expect that anytime soon. Cullimore had 3 goals and 10 assists with a plus 21 in his time with the Panthers last season.

Cullimore will provide needed help to a defensive corps that continues to be shorthanded courtesy of injuries. Cory Murhpy is expected to be out at least six weeks with an injury being described as a “strained shoulder”. Along with Murphy, Bryan Allen had knee surgery Monday and will be on crutches for 6-8 weeks, and Stephen Weiss and Gregory Campbell missed practice Tuesday with groin and hip flexor issues, respectively.

Cullimore however faces immigration issues that could slow his joining the team. In the event Cullimore cannot make it in time for Thurday’s game against Ottawa, forward Wade Belak will be used as a 6th defenseman. Belak practiced Tuesday with the defense.

On a good note for the defense, Bryan McCabe skated on his own the past two days after suffering a back injury in the 2nd period of the season opener. McCabe is not expected to be ready for this weekend, however he may be able to join the team in time for a West Coast swing next week.

Cullimore will be a good band aid for the time being, however he was not offered a contract for a reason at the start of the season. Clearly the Panthers didn’t think then that he was going to be good enough to be a part of their defense, now however they have no choice. Cullimore will be useful in that he is a body to take the weight off the remaining 4 healthy starters.