"I've been mingling while I've been playing, so Dadonov's been my fill-in guy at the table while I'm talking to people," said Bjugstad, who enjoyed helping fans learn the finer points of the card game. "I've been coming back to some chips. He must play a lot in Russia… It's fun. This is a very relaxed environment. I get to hang out with fans, talk about the season and whatever else."
Presented by Ford, "Ice & Dice" has returned to the Panthers' popular list of charitable events after a multi-year hiatus. For a $200 ticket, fans were provided with an exclusive opportunity to gamble and mingle throughout the evening with numerous players, coaches and broadcasters.
"I'm doing really well, so I wish this was real money," said center Jared McCann, standing in front of a large pile of chips at one of the night's several blackjack tables. "It's awesome. To see all the support and everybody come out, it's been great. I hope they show some more support during the season. This is what hockey's all about, giving back to the community."
Next to McCann was James Reimer, upbeat as always while waiting for his cards to come in.
"Losing a lot of money here, but having a good time," the backup goaltender said. "It's for a good cause. I'm losing on purpose. That's my strategy for the night. It's a fun night. Everyone's having a good time. It's good to get things going early. The fans are getting to know us and we're getting to know them. It makes for hopefully a special season."
In addition to table games, there was also no shortage of food, beverages and incredible live entertainment, such as a rocking band and eye-popping performance art. To raise money, a live auction and raffle featuring unique experiences and memorabilia -- including an exciting once-in-a-lifetime trip to Las Vegas to watch the Panthers - left many fans feeling like big winners.
"A lot of winners here tonight," Bjugstad said. "Lots of cool stuff up for grabs for a good cause."
In the end, all proceeds from the event went directly to the Florida Panthers Foundation, which focuses on supporting youth hockey in South Florida, children's health and education, veteran affairs and raising awareness about the team's endangered namesake, the Florida panther.
"The Panthers Foundation is really excited to bring back 'Ice & Dice,' which was a staple of the Foundation in years past," said Lauren Simone, the executive director of the Florida Panthers Foundation. "Fans asked us to bring it back. With our 25th Anniversary, there really wasn't a better way to celebrate the Foundation and raise money than by bringing back an event that used to raise a lot of money for this community."
Thanks to the commitment from players and coaches, Simone said "Ice & Dice" was a hit.
"The players and the coaching staff are amazing," she said. "They never ask or think twice about coming to an event. They come, they enjoy themselves and they help us raise money. They are the reason people are here, and we know that. We're so appreciative. They come with a smile on their face and they have such a good time. We really appreciate their support."
