Kris Versteeg underwent surgery on his left hip Wednesday to repair a cyst problem that impaired his mobility. He had apparently been playing through the issue for the past couple of months and will focus on his recovery during the off-season.

Kris Versteeg will undergo hip surgery on Thursday. Versteeg's hip has been a problem for two months, but he played through it. He's scheduled to become a restricted free agent this summer and will probably be seeking a long-term deal.

Kris Versteeg scored his third goal of the playoffs in a 3-2 overtime loss to New Jersey Tuesday night. Versteeg has registered five points in six postseason contests on the heels of a career-best 54 points during the regular season. Sean Bergenheim also found the back of the net in the Panthers' loss.

Kris Versteeg snapped a 15-game goal drought with his 23rd marker of the season. The tally established a new career high for the 25-year-old forward. He also earned an assist in Florida's disappointing 5-4 overtime loss to Winnipeg on Tuesday night to tie his previous high in points with 53. Versteeg's pace has slowed considerably from the beginning of the year, but he's still one of the better scoring threats on the Panthers.

Kris Versteeg has just one point in his last 10 games. Versteeg hasn't scored since Feb. 12 against the Islanders but he has been getting opportunities. "For us to have success the next 15 days and hopefully through the postseason, Versteeg is going to be a big part of our offense," Coach Dineen said. "We place a lot of pressure on him. We need to see him succeed. When he does, the team responds."

Kris Versteeg expressed his frustrations after Friday's loss. "I was [terrible] all night. When you're playing that bad, it really doesn't matter. You're not going to get the bounces," Versteeg said. "It was on the line. It almost went in. I don't know what to tell you. It comes down to playing better. I have to be better because I've been brutal." Versteeg has just one point in his last 10 games. We wouldn't be surprised if he snaps out of his cold streak soon.

Kris Versteeg returned to action on Saturday March 17.

Kris Versteeg (lower body) skated again on Wednesday and was able to take part in drills with his teammates for the first time. He still isn't expected to play on Thursday, but he is encouraged with his progress. "It's day by day. I'm starting to feel better and better," Versteeg said. "You sit out so long and get so antsy to get back in." He might be available for Saturday's home contest against Buffalo.

Coach Kevin Dineen doesn't expect Kris Versteeg to return from a lower-body injury on Thursday. However, the skilled winger may be alright to play on Saturday against Buffalo. Versteeg hasn't played since Feb. 26 and he is yet to resume full practices.

Kris Versteeg (lower body) skated before the team's optional practice on Monday. He likely won't get back into the Panthers' lineup on Tuesday night against Toronto, but he could be able to return by Thursday versus Boston after he gets some good practice time.