Florida Panthers’ rookie forward Michael Frolik has worked himself onto the first line in a matter of one week. Frolik took to the ice for just the 2nd time this season on Monday night against Montreal. Head coach Peter DeBoer was so impressed with Frolik’s effort that by the 3rd period Frolik was on the top offensive line.

During Tuesday’s practice, Frolik was still on that first line, getting time along side C Nathan Horton and winger Cory Stillman. Frolik remained on that top line during Wednesday’s game against Ottawa. Frolik logged 9:16 of ice time and finished a +1  with 2 shots on goal.

Frolik may not be lighting the world on fire, but he is obvioulsy impressing with his effort on the ice or DeBoer would not have moved him to the top line. Frolik’s effort and performance are proof that he was the better choice to keep up with the Panthers. His competition, Shawn Matthias, was sent to the Panthers’ AHL affiliate in Rochester, NY.