Jovanovski sits in back-to-back situations, so tonight is no different. He will take a seat, Racine will slide in.

For the past five months the Panthers veteran defenseman has patiently participated in practices and morning skates in a courageous effort to continue his 17-year NHL career following major hip surgery last April. Jovanovski underwent hip resurfacing, which is an alternative to a complete hip replacement, and less invasive because most of the femur bone is left intact. It's believed that no athlete from any of the four major professional sports has ever come back successfully after this relatively new procedure. With Jovanovski set to be activated the Panthers will have to make a roster move.

It looks like Jovo could be ready for training camp next season.

it's been a tough season for the Panthers as Jovanovski is the fourth player to have season ending surgery. That list includes Sean Bergenheim who has missed all season with a lower body injury, Stephen Weiss (wrist surgery, missed last 13 games) and Kris Versteeg (knee surgery, missed last eight games)

Jovanovski skated in Florida's 4-3 loss to the New York Islanders on Saturday. He played just under 11 minutes during the first two periods, but was not on the bench for the third. Jovanovski will remain in Florida during the team's eight-day, five-game road trip.

Jovanovski hasn't played since January 29th because of a knee injury, but he will return to the lineup tonight vs. the Islanders. Jovo is not the same player he was before, he likely will not be fantasy relevant.

Jovanovski has only 1 assist and a -1 in his 5 games this season. He isn't a great fantasy option at this point in his career.

Jovanovski has been banged up recently and could draw out of tonight's game. He has two goals and eight points in 49 games.

Jovo Cop played 17:11 in the last Panther game but might not be able to play tonight. He scored two goals and eight points through 48 games with the Cats.

Good news for the veteran defender. In 43 games he scored two goals and eight points. His return would add depth to a thinning blue line.