Territory Talk: Chatting with Bill Zito; Annual Season Predictions

With the Panthers set to open up their 2021-22 season on Thursday against the Penguins at FLA Live Arena, general manager Bill Zito joined this week’s episode of the Territory Talk podcast to discuss the team’s various offseason moves, the all-around skills of Aleksander Barkov, the buzz in South Florida and more. Plus, co-hosts Doug Plagens, Jameson Olive and Katie Gaus make their annual predictions, including one bold Panthers-related take from each.Highlights of the episode include:A special guest appearance from Katie Gaus. (1:00)Panthers general manager Bill Zito joins the show! (6:15)Zito talks about the joy that Joe Thornton brings to the rink. (11:10)Zito talks about locking up Aleksander Barkov for eight more years. (14:50)Like the rest of us, Zito can feel a buzz building in South Florida. (17:10)It’s time to make some predictions for the 2021-22 season. (23:30)Who will lead the Panthers in scoring this season? (29:00)What will be the biggest surprise for the Panthers this season? (31:30)Doug, Jameson and Katie make their bold predictions! (36:00)Which teams will claim the top spots in the Atlantic Division this season? (42:40)