Vopat Returns to NHL Ice

Defenseman Jan Vopat, recalled Friday from the Phoenix Roadrunners of the International Hockey League, played in his first NHL game since Oct. 4. Vopat had been sidelined because of a back injury and was teamed with Doug Zmolek.

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Florida center Rob Niedermayer’s first-period goal against the Kings was the Panthers’ first even-strength goal in nearly three games.