With the fight for first place in the Central Division coming down to the wire, the Panthers will open up a crucial two-game set with the Hurricanes at BB&T Center on Thursday. On this week’s episode of the Territory Talk podcast, The Athletic’s Sara Civian joins the show to preview that series, while also sharing some insights on Carolina’s success this season. Additionally, co-hosts Doug Plagens and Jameson Olive also discuss how Florida’s post-deadline acquisitions have been looking, including an outstanding start for Sam Bennett.

Highlights of the episode include:

• Panthers preparing for huge two-game series with Hurricanes. (1:00)
• Florida’s newest players are making an early impact on the ice. (4:55)
• The Athletic’s Sara Civian stops by to preview Panthers vs. Hurricanes. (22:30)
• Sara discusses her favorite piece of work she’s written so far this season. (30:00)
• Spencer Knight shines between the pipes for the Panthers in his NHL debut. (36:45)