Yandle plays Panthers opener, keeps ironman streak alive

Keith Yandle's ironman streak will continue for at least one more game. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Keith Yandle to play in Panthers' season opener, keeping ironman streak alive

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 1/17/21

Keith Yandle's ironman streak will continue for at least one more game.

Florida Panthers head coach Joel Quenneville said earlier this week that it was unlikely Yandle would play in the team's opener. However, he admitted on Sunday the defenseman will play against the Chicago Blackhawks, per team reporter Katie Gaus.

Coach Q confirms Yandle will be IN tonight #FlaPanthers
— Katie Gaus (@katie_gaus) January 17, 2021

Yandle currently holds the NHL's longest active streak after playing in 866 consecutive games dating back to 2009. It was reported earlier this month that he had fallen out of favor with the Panthers and wasn't in the team's plans moving forward.

The 34-year-old is entering his fifth season in Florida. During the 2019-20 campaign, he tallied 45 points (five goals, 40 assists) in 69 games.

Yandle has three seasons remaining on his current contract worth $6.35 million annually. It's unclear if the Panthers have any plans to trade him.

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