SUNRISE, Fla. - Florida Panthers President of Hockey Operations Dale Tallon announced today that the Panthers have assigned forward Paul Thompson to Florida's American Hockey League affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds.
 
Thompson, 28, has recorded three points (0-3-3) in 21 games with Florida this season. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound native of Methuen, Mass., recorded 15 points (6-9-15) in 20 games with Springfield. At the time of his recall by the Panthers, Thompson had led all Thunderbirds in both goals and points. 

Fresh off the AHL All-Star Classic break, the Thunderbirds are back to game action on Friday, Feb. 3 in Providence against the Bruins. From there, Springfield will visit Bridgeport on Sat., Feb. 4 and Tues., Feb. 7 for back-to-back matchups with the Sound Tigers. All three road games will face off shortly after 7:00 p.m. ET. 

The Thunderbirds are back on MassMutual Center ice on Friday, Feb. 10 as Ric Flair makes a visit to Springfield for "Throwback Night" with a piece of Flair. Flair's special appearance, presented by Big Y and Lia Auto Group. Additionally, the evening also marks Big Y Family Night, where Big Y Silver Savings Club Card holders can save $5 on tickets (NOTE: this offer cannot be combined with Ric Flair packages).

Interested in being part of the next era of AHL hockey in Springfield? Springfield Thunderbirds Ticket Memberships start as low as $12 per game and feature the most exclusive benefits, including a commemorative jersey. For more information, fans may call the Thunderbirds ticket office at (413) 739-GOAL (4625) or visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com.