The Florida Panthers could be without Nick Bjugstad for the opening month of their Atlantic Division title defense.

Bjugstad reportedly broke his hand in Tuesday's preseason clash with the Dallas Stars, and is expected to miss four weeks, according to George Richards of the Miami Herald.

Sliding down the depth chart with the emerging talent in Florida, the versatile Bjugstad is coming off the least productive season of his career, scoring 15 goals and 34 points primarily from the third-line center position. He was able to generate some momentum late in the season, production that carried into the playoffs.

Bjugstad led the Panthers in points in his rookie season, earning a long-term contract extension for his contributions. He returned to establish career highs in goals and points the following season.

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