Balinskis Out; Benning to Make NHL Debut

Uvis Balinskis will be out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets after reaggravating a lingering injury. In his place, the Florida Panthers have recalled defenseman Mike Benning from the AHL's Charlotte Checkers. Benning is set to make his NHL debut, skating alongside Niko Mikkola. Balinskis had been dealing with the injury for several weeks prior to being officially ruled out for tonight's contest.