Nathan Horton

{{for|the fictional soap opera character of the same name|Nathan Horton (Days of Our Lives)}}

{{Infobox ice hockey player

| image = Nathan Horton - Columbus Blue Jackets.jpg

| image_size = 230px

| caption = Horton with the Columbus Blue Jackets in February 2014

| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1985|5|29}}

| birth_place = Dunnville, Ontario, Canada

| height_ft = 6

| height_in = 2

| weight_lb = 229

| position = Right Wing

| shoots = Right

| league = NHL

| played_for = Florida Panthers
Boston Bruins
Columbus Blue Jackets

| draft = 3rd overall

| draft_year = 2003

| draft_team = Florida Panthers

| career_start = 2003

| career_end = 2014

}}

Nathan Russell Horton (born May 29, 1985) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player. During his career, Horton played for the Florida Panthers, Boston Bruins and Columbus Blue Jackets. He was drafted third overall by the Panthers in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He won the Stanley Cup in 2011 with the Bruins.

Horton's last NHL game came in April 2014 due to a back injury. Though he did not officially retire, the surgery required to fix Horton's back would have ended his career regardless.{{Cite web |url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=738932 |title=Blue Jackets' Horton in constant pain: report {{!}} NHL.com |access-date=2015-07-18 |archive-date=2016-01-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160113183345/http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=738932 |url-status=live }}

Playing career

=Minor hockey=

Horton grew up in Dunnville, Ontario, playing much of his minor hockey with the Welland Tigers of the OMHA South Central AAA League until his Minor Peewee year before making the move to play in the Greater Toronto Hockey League with the Toronto Red Wings. Entering his peewee season, he left the Red Wings to go play for the Thorold Blackhawks Jr. B. club of the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA)'s Golden Horseshoe League at age 13. For much of his career with Welland, Horton played up on the "'84" Tigers team with future NHLers Dan Girardi, Daniel Paille (a future Bruins teammate) and Andre Deveaux.

=Junior career=

Horton first entered junior hockey as a player for the Thorold Blackhawks. In one season with Thorold, he scored 16 goals and registered 31 assists in 41 games.{{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8470596|title=Nathan Horton's NHL Profile|access-date=2009-11-19|publisher=National Hockey League|year=2009|archive-date=2016-01-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160113183345/http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8470596|url-status=live}} Prior to the 2001 Ontario Hockey League Draft, a 16-year-old Horton stated that if he was drafted first overall by the Mississauga Ice Dogs, he would not report to the team.{{cite web|url=http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/3189/hockeys_future_profiles_oshawas_nathan_horton/|title=Hockey's Future profiles Oshawa's Nathan Horton|last=Moore|first=Robert|date=November 6, 2001|website=Hockey's Future|access-date=October 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911073820/http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/3189/hockeys_future_profiles_oshawas_nathan_horton/|archive-date=September 11, 2017|url-status=live}} He was instead selected second overall in the draft by the Oshawa Generals.{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/426046771.html?dids=426046771:426046771&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Sep+12%2C+2001&author=Sunaya+Sapurji&pub=Toronto+Star&desc=OHL+teams%3A+The+good%2C+the+bad%2C+the+ugly&pqatl=google|title=OHL teams: The good, the bad, the ugly|last=Sapurji|first=Sunaya|date=September 12, 2001|work=Toronto Star|access-date=October 11, 2009|archive-date=October 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023050901/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/426046771.html?dids=426046771:426046771&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Sep+12,+2001&author=Sunaya+Sapurji&pub=Toronto+Star&desc=OHL+teams:+The+good,+the+bad,+the+ugly&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}} As a rookie in the OHL, Horton totaled 31 goals and 36 assists in 64 games for the Generals. During two seasons with Oshawa, Horton would score 64 goals and record 71 assists.{{cite web|url=http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=59739|title=Nathan Horton|work=Internet Hockey Database|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170410165414/http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=59739|archive-date=April 10, 2017|url-status=live|access-date=October 11, 2009}}

To begin the 2002–03 season, Horton missed 13 games out of 22 but still ended up scoring 9 goals with 18 points during that span.{{cite web|url=http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/5354/the_draft_document_featuring_nathan_horton/|title=The Draft Document Featuring Nathan Horton|last=Allen|first=Trent|date=November 25, 2002|website=Hockey's Future|access-date=October 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021005600/http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/5354/the_draft_document_featuring_nathan_horton/|archive-date=October 21, 2017|url-status=live}} Horton was named to the Canadian national junior team's selection camp in December but was one of the first cuts.{{cite news|url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/canadian-juniors-make-first-cuts-1.354511|title=Canadian juniors make first cuts|date=December 15, 2002|work=CBC Sports|access-date=October 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105152128/http://www.cbc.ca/sports/story/2002/12/14/canhockey021214.html|archive-date=November 5, 2012|url-status=live}} He ended his final season in Oshawa with 33 goals and 35 assists in 54 games.

=2003 NHL Entry Draft=

In January 2002, Horton, along with Patrick O'Sullivan and Kevin Klein, was regarded as a top prospect from the OHL for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.{{cite web|url=http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/3817/hfs_interview_with_st_michaels_major_kevin_klein/|title=HF's Interview with St. Michael's Major Kevin Klein|last=Coccimigilo|first=Brad|date=January 25, 2002|website=Hockey's Future|access-date=October 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180310074857/http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/3817/hfs_interview_with_st_michaels_major_kevin_klein/|archive-date=March 10, 2018|url-status=live}} Eleven months later in December, Horton was called "an almost sure-fire top-five pick" by USA Today.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2002-12-09-woodlief_x.htm|title=Top 5 prospect Horton is center of attention|last=Woodlief|first=Kyle|date=December 9, 2002|work=USA Today|access-date=October 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025141118/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2002-12-09-woodlief_x.htm|archive-date=October 25, 2012|url-status=live}} Midway through the 2002–03 season, Horton was regarded as a top-five North American prospect by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau.{{cite news|url=https://assets.espn.go.com/nhl/news/2003/0128/1500313.html|title=Staal, Fleury top-ranked prospects at midseason|date=January 28, 2003|access-date=October 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180310135551/http://assets.espn.go.com/nhl/news/2003/0128/1500313.html|archive-date=March 10, 2018|url-status=live|publisher=ESPN}} Scouts likened Horton, who considered him a "power forward", to John LeClair, considered to be one of the best power forwards in the NHL. However, Horton said he saw himself to be more like Jeremy Roenick or Peter Forsberg, both of whom were faster than LeClair.{{cite news|url=http://www.post-gazette.com/penguins/20030618nhldraft0618p2.asp|title=Horton turns up power to become possible No. 1 selection|last=Kovacevic|first=Dejan|date=June 18, 2003|work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette|access-date=October 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311021051/http://old.post-gazette.com/penguins/20030618nhldraft0618p2.asp|archive-date=March 11, 2018|url-status=live}}

The Florida Panthers originally held the first overall pick, but traded it and the 73rd pick (used to select Daniel Carcillo) to the Pittsburgh Penguins for the third pick (Horton), the 55th pick (Stefan Meyer) and Mikael Samuelsson.{{cite web|last=Spence |first=Rob |title=TRADING UP FOR MARC-ANDRE FLEURY |publisher=CrashingTheGoalie |date=26 June 2009 |url=http://crashingthegoalie.com/2009/06/26/the-fleury-trade/ |access-date=16 April 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416181412/http://crashingthegoalie.com/2009/06/26/the-fleury-trade/ |archive-date=16 April 2014}} Goaltender Marc-André Fleury (Pittsburgh) and centre Eric Staal (Carolina) were selected before him.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/draft/2003-06-22-first-round_x.htm|title=First-round breakdown|last=Allen|first=Kevin|date=June 22, 2003|work=USA Today|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020232124/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/draft/2003-06-22-first-round_x.htm|archive-date=October 20, 2012|url-status=live}}

=Florida Panthers=

Horton signed with the Panthers on October 6, 2003.{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/419440611.html?dids=419440611:419440611&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Oct+06%2C+2003&author=Michael+Russo++Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=TOP+ROOKIE+HORTON+SET+TO+SIGN&pqatl=google|title=Top Rookie Horton set to Sign|last=Russo|first=Michael|date=October 6, 2003|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-date=October 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023051117/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/419440611.html?dids=419440611:419440611&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Oct+06,+2003&author=Michael+Russo++Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=TOP+ROOKIE+HORTON+SET+TO+SIGN&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}} After his signing, Panthers head coach Mike Keenan compared Horton to future New York Rangers Hall of Famer Mark Messier.{{cite news|url=http://www.post-gazette.com/penguins/20031107pens1107p2.asp|title=Horton upholds his part of deal|last=Molinari|first=Dave|date=November 7, 2003|work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180310201616/http://old.post-gazette.com/penguins/20031107pens1107p2.asp|archive-date=March 10, 2018|url-status=live}}

Against the Minnesota Wild on October 24, Horton recorded his first career point with an assist on an Ivan Novoseltsev goal.{{cite news|url=http://www.sptimes.com/2003/10/25/Sports/Wild_comeback_drops_P.shtml|title=Wild comeback drops Panthers|date=October 25, 2003|work=St. Petersburg Times|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040427230035/http://www.sptimes.com/2003/10/25/Sports/Wild_comeback_drops_P.shtml|archive-date=April 27, 2004|url-status=dead}} Horton recorded his first career goal on November 1 against the San Jose Sharks.{{cite news|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-86547484.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102075751/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-86547484.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 2, 2012|title=Nathan Horton first NHL goal |last=Schecter|first=Eliot J.|date=November 1, 2003|work=Getty Images|access-date=2009-10-12}} In the next game for the Panthers, against the Los Angeles Kings, Horton scored his second goal in as many games.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap?gameId=231105026|title=Kings take advantage of power plays|date=November 5, 2003|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180310201610/http://www.espn.com/nhl/recap?gameId=231105026|archive-date=March 10, 2018|url-status=dead|publisher=ESPN|agency=Associated Press}} On January 9, 2004, Horton became the first rookie in NHL history to record a goal on a penalty shot, scoring against Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Jeff Hackett.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/games/2004-01-09-panthers-flyers_x.htm|title=Teen-ager skates to NHL record|date=January 9, 2004|work=USA Today|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025141808/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/games/2004-01-09-panthers-flyers_x.htm|archive-date=October 25, 2012|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} Three seasons later, on October 22, 2006, Penguins rookie Jordan Staal matched the feat and surpassed Horton as the youngest player to score; Staal was 183 days younger than Horton was when he scored.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/news/story?id=2634615|title=Elias Says ...|date=October 22, 2006|work=Elias Sports Bureau|access-date=October 13, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180310201743/http://www.espn.com/espn/news/story?id=2634615|archive-date=March 10, 2018|url-status=live}} Four days after his penalty shot goal, Horton suffered a torn rotator cuff and labrum which could potentially have ended his season.{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/524749701.html?dids=524749701:524749701&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jan+15%2C+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=OUTLOOK+FOR+HORTON+ISN%27T+ENCOURAGING&pqatl=google|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131202518/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/524749701.html?dids=524749701:524749701&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jan+15,+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=OUTLOOK+FOR+HORTON+ISN'T+ENCOURAGING&pqatl=google|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 31, 2013|title=Outlook for Horton isn't Encouraging|last=Russo|first=Michael|date=January 15, 2004|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=October 12, 2009}}{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/523890671.html?dids=523890671:523890671&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jan+13%2C+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=HORTON%27S+YEAR+MAY+BE+OVER&pqatl=google|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131172135/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/523890671.html?dids=523890671:523890671&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jan+13,+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=HORTON'S+YEAR+MAY+BE+OVER&pqatl=google|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 31, 2013|title=Horton's year may be over|last=Russo|first=Michael|date=January 13, 2004|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=October 12, 2009}} At the time, he was third on the Panthers with ten goals.{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/525224481.html?dids=525224481:525224481&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jan+16%2C+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=HORTON+OUT+FOR+SEASON+PANTHERS+ROOKIE+FORWARD+HAS+MULTIPLE+SHOULDER+INJURIES%2C+FACES+SURGERY&pqatl=google|title=Horton out for season: Panthers rookie Forward has multiple shoulder injuries, faces surgery|last=Russo|first=Michael|date=January 16, 2004|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-date=October 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023054513/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/525224481.html?dids=525224481:525224481&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jan+16,+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=HORTON+OUT+FOR+SEASON+PANTHERS+ROOKIE+FORWARD+HAS+MULTIPLE+SHOULDER+INJURIES,+FACES+SURGERY&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}} Following an examination by surgeon Tony Miniaci, Horton was told he could rehabilitate naturally and did not require surgery on his shoulder.{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/591135381.html?dids=591135381:591135381&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Mar+28%2C+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=HORTON+LIKELY+TO+REQUIRE+SURGERY+SHOULDER+STILL+HURTS+ROOKIE&pqatl=google|title=Horton Likely to Require Surgery, Shoulder still Hurts Rookie|last=Russo|first=Michael|date=March 28, 2004|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-date=October 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023054525/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/591135381.html?dids=591135381:591135381&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Mar+28,+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=HORTON+LIKELY+TO+REQUIRE+SURGERY+SHOULDER+STILL+HURTS+ROOKIE&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}} He returned to the Panthers in early March and scored in one of his first games back against the Tampa Bay Lightning.{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/552028531.html?dids=552028531:552028531&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Feb+27%2C+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=CULLEN+BECOMING+A+PLAYMAKER&pqatl=google|title=Lightning extend franchise-best win streak to eight|last=Russo|first=Michael|date=March 7, 2004|work=Seattle Post-Intelligencer|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-date=October 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023055000/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/552028531.html?dids=552028531:552028531&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Feb+27,+2004&author=Michael+Russo+Staff+Writer&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=CULLEN+BECOMING+A+PLAYMAKER&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}} However, his shoulder troubles continued and it was determined that surgery was ultimately required. Horton ended his rookie campaign with 14 goals and 8 assists in 55 games.

The 2004–05 NHL season ended up being locked out which forced Horton and other players to sign with other teams. Horton eventually signed with the Panthers' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the San Antonio Rampage,{{cite press release|url=http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3096960&l_id=&t_id=|title=Rampage sign Nathan Horton to AHL contract|date=October 29, 2004|work=Our Sports Central|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160113183347/https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/rampage-sign-nathan-horton-to-ahl-contract/n-3096960|archive-date=January 13, 2016|url-status=live}} after a controversy ensued as to whether junior-hockey-eligible players such as Horton were obligated to return to their junior teams.{{cite news|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/Junior/2004/09/29/pf-648500.html|title=CHL wants its NHLers back in fold|last=Koshan|first=Terry|date=September 29, 2004|newspaper=Toronto Sun|access-date=2009-10-12|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716015556/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/Junior/2004/09/29/pf-648500.html|archive-date=July 16, 2012|url-status=usurped|publisher=Slam! Sports}} Despite not signing with the Rampage until October 29, Horton still participated in their training camp.{{cite news|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/stories/2004/09/20/daily35.html?jst=b_ln_hl|title=Rampage drop the puck Sunday|last=Bailey|first=W. Scott|date=September 24, 2004|work=San Antonio Business Journal|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110805044848/https://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/stories/2004/09/20/daily35.html?jst=b_ln_hl|archive-date=August 5, 2011|url-status=live}} Seven minutes into his second AHL game, Horton scored his first goal of the season.{{cite press release|url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/back-to-back-wins-have-rampage-rolling/n-3097647|title=Back to back wins have Rampage rolling|date=November 1, 2004|work=Our Sports Central|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160822132142/http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/back-to-back-wins-have-rampage-rolling/n-3097647|archive-date=August 22, 2016|url-status=live}} He recorded his first

career AHL assist on a Gregory Campbell goal.{{cite press release|url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/rampage-win-west-shootout-split-games-for-the-week/n-3101452|title=Rampage Win West Shootout, Split Games for the Week|date=November 15, 2004|work=Our Sports Central|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160113183346/https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/rampage-win-west-shootout-split-games-for-the-week/n-3101452|archive-date=January 13, 2016|url-status=live}} On December 3, 2004, against the Houston Aeros, Horton scored both of the Rampage's goals to help the team win in overtime.{{cite news|url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/horton-sinks-aeros-in-ot/n-3106581|title=Horton sinks Aeros in OT|date=December 3, 2004|work=Our Sports Central|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160113183346/https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/horton-sinks-aeros-in-ot/n-3106581|archive-date=January 13, 2016|url-status=live}}

image:Nathan Horton.jpg in November 2007]]

For the second straight season, the Panthers did not allow Horton to play for the Canadian national junior team. He and Houston Aeros defenceman Brent Burns were the only two players not allowed to play for the team.{{cite news|url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/horton-burns-left-off-canada-s-world-junior-roster-1.482723|title=Horton, Burns left off Canada's world junior roster|date=December 5, 2004|work=CBC Sports|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080423195605/http://www.cbc.ca/sports/story/2004/12/04/horton041204.html|archive-date=April 23, 2008|url-status=live}} Days before the announcement Horton would not play for Team Canada, he suffered another shoulder injury which allegedly played into the Panthers' decision.{{cite news|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/Junior/2004/12/07/pf-769994.html|title=Juniors ecstatic after being named to selection camp|last=Koshan|first=Terry|date=December 7, 2004|newspaper=Toronto Sun|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120719113643/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/Junior/2004/12/07/pf-769994.html|archive-date=July 19, 2012|publisher=Slam! Sports|url-status=usurped}} Horton suffered the shoulder injury in a fight in December and missed 14 games. He was informed he would again have to undergo surgery.{{cite news|url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-2005-02-01-0501310447-story.html|title=Once again, shoulder surgery ends year for Panthers' Horton|last=Russo|first=Michael|date=January 31, 2005|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190527234617/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-2005-02-01-0501310447-story.html|archive-date=May 27, 2019|url-status=live}} In 21 games for San Antonio, Horton scored five goals and recorded four assists.

Entering the 2005–06 season, Horton stated in response to a question about his shoulders: "I feel better. I feel stronger, bigger."{{cite news|url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-136430307/horton-health-questions-issue.html|title=For Horton, health questions will be the issue|last=Neal|first=David J.|date=September 20, 2005|work=The Miami Herald|access-date=October 12, 2009}} In the season opener against the Atlanta Thrashers, Horton scored the first goal for the Panthers.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/scores105/105278/NHL17090.htm|title=Panthers 2, Thrashers 0|date=October 5, 2005|work=USA Today|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131215041324/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/scores105/105278/NHL17090.htm|archive-date=December 15, 2013|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} Through the first games of the season, Horton was tied for the team lead in goals.{{cite web|url=http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/8025/trio_strong_out_of_the_gate/|title=Trio strong out of the gate|last=Brown|first=E. M.|date=October 17, 2005|website=Hockey's Future|access-date=2009-10-12|archive-date=2008-10-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081006234111/http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/8025/trio_strong_out_of_the_gate/|url-status=live}} On November 8, 2005, he was placed on injured reserve because of a knee injury.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap?gameId=251109026|title=Prucha scores only goal in shootout|date=November 9, 2005|agency=Associated Press|publisher=ESPN|access-date=2009-10-12|archive-date=2012-11-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103091016/http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/recap?gameId=251109026|url-status=dead}} He was activated on December 1{{cite magazine|url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/hockey/nhl/12/01/players.of.the.month/|title=Roundup: Alfredsson, Turco named Players of the Month|date=December 1, 2005|magazine=Sports Illustrated|access-date=October 3, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20131003222702/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/hockey/nhl/12/01/players.of.the.month/|archive-date=October 3, 2013|url-status=dead}} and scored in his first game back against the Washington Capitals to help the Panthers win 3–2.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/12/02/sports/nhl-roundup-new-bruin-has-impact-in-victory.html|title=Capitals lose Fifth Straight|date=December 2, 2005|work=The New York Times|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623225216/https://www.nytimes.com/2005/12/02/sports/nhl-roundup-new-bruin-has-impact-in-victory.html|archive-date=June 23, 2018|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} Horton added two goals against the Chicago Blackhawks in the Panthers' next game to bring his season total to 10 in 17 games.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/scores105/105339/NHL17203.htm|title=Senators-Panthers Preview|date=December 5, 2005|work=USA Today|access-date=2009-10-12|archive-date=2021-11-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107123301/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/scores105/105339/NHL17203.htm|url-status=live}} Against the Nashville Predators on December 13, Horton recorded his first career hat-trick and stated after the game: "It's a pretty nice feeling. I felt like there was no one on me. I just tried to get it to the net and it went in every time."{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/scores105/105347/NHL17532.htm|title=Panthers 7, Predators 3|date=December 13, 2005|work=USA Today|access-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214131854/http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/scores105/105347/NHL17532.htm|archive-date=December 14, 2013|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} Despite missing ten games to injury, Horton was tied with teammate Olli Jokinen for the team lead in goals with 16 after 38 games.{{cite news|url=http://www.covers.com/articles/articles.aspx?theArt=65588&tid=28&t=0|title=Preview: Bruins vs. Panthers|date=December 28, 2005|access-date=2009-10-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716192702/http://www.covers.com/articles/articles.aspx?theArt=65588&tid=28&t=0|archive-date=July 16, 2011|url-status=live|publisher=Covers.com|agency=Associated Press}} Against Washington on January 9, Horton and Joe Nieuwendyk scored a goal in the shootout to help the Panthers win 4–3.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/09/sports/nhl-roundup-rangers-get-a-scorer-in-sykora.html|title=Luongo saves Panthers|last=Diamos|first=Jason|date=January 9, 2006|work=The New York Times|access-date=October 13, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623223920/https://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/09/sports/nhl-roundup-rangers-get-a-scorer-in-sykora.html|archive-date=June 23, 2018|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} Two days after his shootout goal, Horton was promoted to the Panthers' first line.{{cite news|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=52377|title=Fantasy: Goalies make poolies bonkers|last=Dennis|first=Greg|date=January 11, 2006|agency=The Canadian Press|publisher=Sporting News|access-date=2009-10-13}}{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Despite his promotion to the first line, Horton's name was mentioned in a potential trade with the Vancouver Canucks,{{cite news|url=https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=150056&hubname=nhl|title=NHL Mail: Looking for a Shake-Up|last=Cullen|first=Scott|date=January 9, 2006|work=TSN|access-date=October 13, 2009}} but nothing materialized. In a 6–2 win over the Ottawa Senators, Horton scored two goals including one on a rebound, after which he said: "It just popped right out to me. It was a long time coming for goals for me. I got lucky tonight and hopefully they keep going in."{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/scores106/106067/NHL18014.htm|title=Panthers 6, Senators 2|date=March 8, 2006|work=USA Today|access-date=October 13, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131217021331/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/scores106/106067/NHL18014.htm|archive-date=December 17, 2013|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} In March, Horton began playing in penalty kill situations for the first time in his career.{{cite news|url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-14563588_ITM|title=Spirits high despite loss|last=Gorten|first=Steve|date=April 5, 2006|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=October 13, 2009}} Also against the Lightning, Horton scored the Panthers' only goal with his 27th goal of the season.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/preview?gameId=260405026|title=Atlanta 5, Florida 2|date=April 5, 2006|agency=Associated Press|publisher=ESPN|access-date=2009-10-13|archive-date=2012-11-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103091127/http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/preview?gameId=260405026|url-status=live}} Horton completed the season playing 71 games, scoring 28 goals and adding 19 assists.

Following the 2005–06 season, Horton's rookie contract expired. He was re-signed by Florida on July 12, 2006, to a one-year, $1.1 million contract.{{cite news|url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-148113155/horton-agrees-roberts-stay.html|title=Horton agrees; Roberts to stay: Florida retained winger Nathan Horton with a $1.1 million deal, and GM Mike Keenan expects winger Gary Roberts to remain|last=Richards|first=George|date=July 12, 2006|work=The Miami Herald|access-date=October 13, 2009}} Against the Boston Bruins, Horton scored his first goal of the season to help the Panthers win 8–3.{{cite news|url=http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2006Oct07/0,4670,NHLRdp,00.html|title=Panthers 8, Bruins 3|last=Beard|first=Aaron|date=October 7, 2006|agency=Associated Press|publisher=Fox News Channel|access-date=2009-10-13|archive-date=2012-10-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023125720/http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2006Oct07/0,4670,NHLRdp,00.html|url-status=live}} He scored his third goal of the season on October 18 in a 5–2 loss against the Washington Capitals, who the Panthers had not lost to in regulation since the 2004–05 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/scores106/106291/NHL705355.htm|title=Capitals 5, Panthers 2|date=October 18, 2006|agency=Associated Press|work=USA Today|access-date=2009-10-13|archive-date=2021-11-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107123304/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/scores106/106291/NHL705355.htm|url-status=live}} After Horton was called for a second-period penalty against Atlanta, head coach Jacques Martin demoted Horton to the fourth line in an attempt to send a message to Horton. However, before long, Horton was again promoted to the first line, alongside Finnish players Olli Jokinen and Ville Peltonen, who jokingly gave Horton the name "Nathan Hortonen" in an attempt to make his name Finnish.{{cite magazine|url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/scorecard/11/29/truth.rumors.nhl/|title=Truth & Rumors|date=November 29, 2006|access-date=October 14, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025122122/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/scorecard/11/29/truth.rumors.nhl/|archive-date=October 25, 2012|url-status=dead|magazine=Sports Illustrated}} Against the Montreal Canadiens on November 16, Horton assisted on all goals that Jokinen recorded.{{cite news|url=http://www.foxreno.com/sports/10340969/detail.html|title=NHL: Minnesota Wins In Wild Shootout|date=November 16, 2006|work=Fox Reno|access-date=2009-10-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723223729/http://www.foxreno.com/sports/10340969/detail.html |archive-date=2011-07-23}} Against Tampa Bay on February 17, Horton scored the game-winning goal for Florida, 29 seconds into overtime.{{cite news|url=http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2007/02/17/sports/s192205S71.DTL|title=Horton Makes Quick Work of Lightning|date=February 17, 2007|work=San Francisco Chronicle|access-date=2009-10-14}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}

For the second straight season, Horton's name was brought up in trade offers. However, Canadian sports writer Bruce Garrioch called it "doubtful" Horton would be traded{{cite news|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/NHL/Ottawa/2007/02/15/3627552-sun.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717063848/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/NHL/Ottawa/2007/02/15/3627552-sun.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 17, 2012|title=Ont. rivals may battle for Roberts|last=Garrioch|first=Bruce|work=Sun Media|publisher=Slam! Sports|access-date=2009-10-14}} despite Horton being unhappy playing in Florida.{{cite news|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-144116448.html|title=Spirits high despite loss|last=Gorten|first=Steve|date=April 5, 2006|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=2009-11-06}}{{dead link|date=February 2019|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} Against Tampa Bay on March 28, Horton scored two goals, which brought his season total for goals against the Lightning up to eight.{{cite news|url=http://www.sptimes.com/2007/03/28/Lightning/Ranger_nearing_an_ear.shtml|title=Ranger nearing an early return|last=Cristodero|first=Damian|date=March 28, 2007|work=St. Petersburg Times|access-date=2009-10-14|archive-date=2011-09-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110917030306/http://www.sptimes.com/2007/03/28/Lightning/Ranger_nearing_an_ear.shtml|url-status=live}} In the Panthers' next game against the Lightning, Horton had one goal which made it nine goals and three assists for him against Tampa Bay in the 2006–07 season. The goal also gave Horton his career-high 31st goal on the season.{{cite news|url=https://www.boston.com/sports/hockey/articles/2007/04/07/thrashers_top_hurricanes_clinch_division/|title=Thrashers top Hurricanes, clinch division|date=April 7, 2007|agency=Associated Press|work=Boston Globe|access-date=2009-10-14|archive-date=2012-10-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024123752/http://www.boston.com/sports/hockey/articles/2007/04/07/thrashers_top_hurricanes_clinch_division/|url-status=live}} He ended the season with 31 goals and 31 assists in 82 games.

Horton re-signed with the Panthers on June 21, 2007, to a six-year, US$24 million contract.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/news/story?id=2912280|title=Horton signs six-year, $24 million deal with Panthers|access-date=2007-08-15|publisher=ESPN|date=June 21, 2007|archive-date=2007-09-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070901083916/http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=2912280|url-status=live}} despite previous rumours he would not.{{cite news|url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/web/COM1059136/index.htm|title=Truth & Rumors|date=February 1, 2007|work=The Palm Beach Post|access-date=2009-10-14|archive-date=2012-10-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025122132/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/web/COM1059136/index.htm|url-status=dead}} Through seven games for the Panthers to open the 2007–08 NHL season, Horton recorded three goals and three assists, during which he had a four-game point streak.{{cite news|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/nhl/article/2007-10-20/sens-riding-hot-goalie-gerber|title=Sens riding hot goalie in Gerber|date=October 20, 2007|work=Sporting News|access-date=October 14, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603121915/http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2007-10-20/sens-riding-hot-goalie-gerber|archive-date=June 3, 2012|url-status=dead|agency=Associated Press}} Horton scored the only goal for the Panthers in a 2–1 loss against the Carolina Hurricanes on November 18.{{cite news|url=http://www.theindychannel.com/nhl/14628355/detail.html|title=Brind'Amour Boosts Carolina Over Florida|date=November 18, 2007|work=The Indy Channel|access-date=2009-10-15|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071119115110/http://www.theindychannel.com/nhl/14628355/detail.html|archive-date=November 19, 2007}} Against the Washington Capitals on November 28, Horton, along with teammates Olli Jokinen, Kamil Kreps and Stephen Weiss, scored shootout goals to help Florida win the game.{{cite news|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/nhl/article/2007-11-30/panthers-enter-december-hot-streak-after-strong-november|title=Panthers enter December on hot streak after strong November|date=November 30, 2007|work=Sporting News|access-date=2009-10-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603121927/http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2007-11-30/panthers-enter-december-hot-streak-after-strong-november|archive-date=June 3, 2012|url-status=dead|agency=Associated Press}} For the first time since March 2007, Horton scored two goals in a game to help the Panthers win over the Atlanta Thrashers on December 28.{{cite news|url=https://www.foxnews.com/printer_friendly_wires/2007Dec28/0,4675,HKNNHLRdp,00.html|title=Another Night, Another Wings Win|date=December 28, 2007|publisher=Fox News Channel|access-date=October 15, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180310074251/https://www.foxnews.com/printer_friendly_wires/2007Dec28/0,4675,HKNNHLRdp,00.html|archive-date=March 10, 2018|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} Horton and linemate David Booth combined for three goals against the New York Islanders, of which Horton scored two.{{cite news|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/nhl/article/2008-01-03/panthers-end-skid-ot-win-over-isles|title=Panthers end skid with OT win over Isles|date=January 3, 2008|work=Sporting News|access-date=October 15, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603121938/http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2008-01-03/panthers-end-skid-ot-win-over-isles|archive-date=June 3, 2012|url-status=dead|agency=Associated Press}} In the Panthers' 5–3 win over the Ottawa Senators on January 22, 2008, Horton recorded four assists,{{cite news|url=https://www.chron.com/sports/article/NHL-Rookie-Russell-leads-Blue-Jackets-past-Stars-1673197.php|title=Rookie Russell leads Blue Jackets past Stars|date=January 23, 2008|work=Houston Chronicle|access-date=October 15, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024051312/https://www.chron.com/sports/article/NHL-Rookie-Russell-leads-Blue-Jackets-past-Stars-1673197.php|archive-date=October 24, 2012|url-status=live}} which was a career–high.{{cite news|url=http://www.seattlepi.com/scorecard/hockeynews.asp?articleID=48795|title=Edmonton wraps road swing in Florida|date=January 24, 2008|work=Seattle Post-Intelligencer|access-date=2009-10-15}} {{Dead link|date=December 2011|bot=RjwilmsiBot}} Horton scored against Vancouver Canucks goaltender and former Panther Roberto Luongo in a shootout to help the Panthers win 4–3, giving them their first win over Vancouver since 1999.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=nhl&id=3226755|title=Nathan Horton scores in shootout and Panthers beat Canucks 4-3|date=February 1, 2008|agency=Associated Press|publisher=ESPN|access-date=2009-10-15|archive-date=2012-11-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103093658/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/wire?section=nhl&id=3226755|url-status=live}} Horton scored a goal against the Washington Capitals to help Florida win 4–2 in the game after Richard Zedník suffered a neck injury in which he had his external carotid artery cut by a skate.{{cite news|url=http://www.modbee.com/sports/story/213262.html|title=Sharks ready for tough road|date=February 16, 2008|work=Modesto Bee|access-date=October 15, 2009|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130129151702/http://www.modbee.com/sports/story/213262.html|archive-date=January 29, 2013|url-status=dead}} Twenty-two seconds into overtime against the Boston Bruins on March 5, Horton scored to give the Panthers a 1–0 victory.{{cite news|url=https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Forsberg-sharp-in-first-game-3292494.php|title=Forsberg sharp in first game Penguins' Crosby returns triumphant 0|date=March 5, 2008|work=San Francisco Chronicle|access-date=October 15, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623221921/https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Forsberg-sharp-in-first-game-3292494.php|archive-date=June 23, 2018|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} Four days later on March 9, Horton scored again in overtime with 23 seconds left, prompting the Miami Herald to nickname him the "King of Overtime".{{cite news|url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=MH&s_site=miami&p_multi=MH&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=11F4DBEF0E41B050&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|title=Horton sparks Florida, Nathan Horton scored with 23 seconds left in overtime, and the surging Panthers rallied from a 2-0 deficit for their fourth consecutive victory|date=March 9, 2008|work=The Miami Herald|access-date=2009-10-15|archive-date=2012-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020200559/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=MH&s_site=miami&p_multi=MH&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=11F4DBEF0E41B050&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|url-status=live}} On April 5, Horton scored his 100th career goal.{{cite news|url=https://www.chron.com/sports/article/NHL-NOTES-Blackhawks-Eager-misses-12th-straight-1762680.php|title=Blackhawks' Eager misses 12 straight game|date=April 5, 2008|work=Houston Chronicle|access-date=October 15, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160113183347/http://www.chron.com/sports/article/NHL-NOTES-Blackhawks-Eager-misses-12th-straight-1762680.php|archive-date=January 13, 2016|url-status=live}}

File:Ville Peltonen and Nathan Horton.jpg in February 2009|alt=Canadian male in white uniform and white helmet standing next to European male also in white uniform and helmet]]

Prior to the start of the 2008–09 NHL season, Panthers head coach Peter DeBoer, who first saw Horton play at seven years old, said about his hopes for Horton: "If I'm looking for guys to do more, he wouldn't be at the top of the list. If he can give us 30-plus, I'd be happy with Nathan. There's a group of guys underneath him that I think can make a lot bigger jumps than I need out of Nathan Horton goal-wise."{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/1571055171.html?dids=1571055171:1571055171&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Oct+10%2C+2008&author=Steve+Gorten&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=ONUS+IS+ON+HORTON+TALENTED+YOUNG+CENTER+BEING+COUNTED+ON+TO+FILL+SCORING+VOID&pqatl=google|title=Onus is on Horton: Talented Young Center being counted on to fill scoring void|last=Gorten|first=Steve|date=October 10, 2008|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-date=October 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023112228/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/1571055171.html?dids=1571055171:1571055171&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Oct+10,+2008&author=Steve+Gorten&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=ONUS+IS+ON+HORTON+TALENTED+YOUNG+CENTER+BEING+COUNTED+ON+TO+FILL+SCORING+VOID&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}} Horton was also moved from his position of right wing to centre before the season. After playing a few games at centre, Horton said: "It's not as easy as wing. You can play wing and all you have to concentrate on is getting the puck and shooting it. At center, you have more responsibilities."{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/1581187181.html?dids=1581187181:1581187181&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Oct+21%2C+2008&author=Posted+by+Steve+Gorten+at+6%3A21+PM&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=HORTON+STILL+GETTING+COMFY&pqatl=google|title=Horton still getting comfy|last=Gorten|first=Steve|date=October 21, 2008|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-date=October 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023112239/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sun_sentinel/access/1581187181.html?dids=1581187181:1581187181&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Oct+21,+2008&author=Posted+by+Steve+Gorten+at+6:21+PM&pub=South+Florida+Sun+-+Sentinel&desc=HORTON+STILL+GETTING+COMFY&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}} Against the Nashville Predators on November 1, Horton played in his 300th career game, but failed to record a point.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/scores108/108306/NHL829996.htm|title=Erat scores lone goal of shootout in Preds' win|date=November 1, 2008|work=USA Today|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025172222/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/scores108/108306/NHL829996.htm|archive-date=October 25, 2012|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} On November 26, Horton suffered a deep cut in his leg after it was stepped on by a skate. At the time of the injury, Horton had six goals and seven assists.{{cite news|url=http://www.palmbeachpost.com/panthers/content/sports/epaper/2008/11/27/a9b_panthers_1128.html|title=Panthers center Nathan Horton won't play tonight vs. Rangers|date=November 27, 2008|work=The Miami Herald|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617020955/http://www.palmbeachpost.com/panthers/content/sports/epaper/2008/11/27/a9b_panthers_1128.html|archive-date=June 17, 2011|url-status=dead}} In early December, the Ottawa Sun reported that the Panthers might have been looking to trade Horton after he was reportedly unhappy playing for the team.{{cite news|url=http://www.thefourthperiod.com/news/fla081207.html|title=Panthers shopping Horton?|date=December 7, 2008|publisher=TheFourthPeriod.com|access-date=2009-11-01|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090122075825/http://www.thefourthperiod.com/news/fla081207.html|archive-date=January 22, 2009}} Horton returned to the lineup on December 17 after missing eight games. After the game, Horton commented, "I'm excited to play. It's kind of a different Panthers team than the past. It's really changed in a matter of a month. Things are going good now, and everybody's really buying into what Pete has been telling us all year."{{cite news|url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-2008-12-16-0812150385-story.html|title=Loss in Vancouver 'Missed Opportunity'|last=Gorten|first=Steve|date=December 16, 2008|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190527230249/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-2008-12-16-0812150385-story.html|archive-date=May 27, 2019|url-status=live}} On January 17, Horton recorded three assists to help the Panthers defeat Tampa Bay, 4–3.{{cite news|url=https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2009/01/17/NHL-Florida-4-Tampa-Bay-3/UPI-30171232251330/|title=NHL: Florida 4, Tampa Bay 3|date=January 17, 2009|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605084638/https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2009/01/17/NHL-Florida-4-Tampa-Bay-3/UPI-30171232251330/|archive-date=June 5, 2011|url-status=live|work=United Press International}} For the second time during the season, Horton's name came up in trade rumours, this time with the Chicago Blackhawks.{{cite news|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/nhl/article/2009-02-21/blackhawks-chief-looking-shore-lineup|title=Blackhawks chief looking to shore up lineup|last=Slover|first=Ray|date=February 21, 2009|work=Sporting News|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603122028/http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2009-02-21/blackhawks-chief-looking-shore-lineup|archive-date=June 3, 2012|url-status=dead}} In early March, days after the trade deadline, Horton suffered a finger injury that forced him to have surgery.{{cite news|url=http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/sports/epaper/2009/03/09/0309panthers.html|title=Panthers' Nathan Horton out 2-4 weeks; Bryan McCabe out at least two games|last=Biggane|first=Brian|date=March 9, 2009|work=The Palm Beach Post|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617021012/http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/sports/epaper/2009/03/09/0309panthers.html|archive-date=June 17, 2011|url-status=dead}} He returned to the lineup on March 23, recording an assist in a Panthers loss to the Carolina Hurricanes.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/scores109/109082/NHL830751.htm|title=Whitney's OT goal lifts Canes to win over Panthers|date=March 23, 2009|work=USA Today|access-date=November 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160315022411/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/scores109/109082/NHL830751.htm|archive-date=March 15, 2016|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}} Horton ended the season with 22 goals and 23 assists in 67 games.

=Boston Bruins=

File:NathanHortonBruins2012.jpg in January 2012]] Horton was traded to the Boston Bruins on June 22, 2010, along with Gregory Campbell, in exchange for Dennis Wideman, the Bruins' first-round pick (15th overall) in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft and a third-round pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.{{Cite news|url=http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=325375|title=Panthers Deal Horton, Campbell to Bruins for Wideman, Picks|date=June 23, 2010|work=The Sports Network|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629065404/http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=325375|archive-date=June 29, 2011|url-status=dead}} He got off to a great start in his first season in Boston, with seven goals and six assists, including a six-game point streak, in the first 12 games of the season. He finished second on the team in goals and fourth in assists. During the first round of the 2011 playoffs against the Montreal Canadiens, Horton scored a game-winning overtime goal for the Bruins in both games five and seven on Canadiens' goaltender Carey Price to help the Bruins win the series in seven games.{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/gametracker/recap/NHL_20110427_MON@BOS|title=Horton finishes Game 7 win over Habs in OT for B's|date=April 27, 2011|work=CBS Sports|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311021558/https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/gametracker/recap/NHL_20110427_MON@BOS|archive-date=March 11, 2018|url-status=live|agency=STATS LLC, Associated Press}} A third period goal by Horton against the Tampa Bay Lightning in Eastern Conference Finals Game 7, the lone goal of the game on Lightning' goaltender Dwayne Roloson, later sent the Bruins to the Stanley Cup Finals.{{Cite web |url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/icetracker.htm?id=2010030317 |title=Tampa Bay Lightning at Boston Bruins - May 27th, 2011 {{!}} NHL.com |access-date=2011-05-28 |archive-date=2011-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110528144346/http://www.nhl.com/ice/icetracker.htm?id=2010030317 |url-status=live }} In game three of the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals, Horton was seriously injured on a late hit by Vancouver Canucks defenceman Aaron Rome. Rome received a five-minute major for interference and a game misconduct. Horton was unresponsive as he was carried out on a stretcher and put into an ambulance. He was moving all his extremities in the ambulance.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/nhl/2011-06-06-horton-stretcher_N.htm|title=Bruins' Nathan Horton taken off the Boston ice on stretcher|last=Allen|first=Kevin|date=June 6, 2011|work=USA Today|access-date=June 7, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160514030540/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/nhl/2011-06-06-horton-stretcher_N.htm|archive-date=May 14, 2016|url-status=live}} He was later diagnosed with a severe concussion and missed the remainder of the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals. This was arguably the turning point in the series, as the Bruins would go on to win four of the next five games and score 21 of the next 25 goals against the Presidents' Trophy-winning Canucks after the hit. Rome was suspended for four games.{{Cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/boston/nhl/news/story?id=6634296 |title=2011 Stanley Cup playoffs: Vancouver Canucks' Aaron Rome suspended 4 games, Boston Bruins' Nathan Horton to miss rest of playoffs |date=7 June 2011 |access-date=2011-06-07 |archive-date=2011-06-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110608201301/http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nhl/news/story?id=6634296 |url-status=live }} Although Horton missed the remainder of the finals, he was able to hoist the Stanley Cup in Vancouver on June 15 after the Bruins won Game 7.

On January 22, 2012, Horton sustained another concussion, this time from Philadelphia Flyers forward Tom Sestito. Horton would not return for the remainder of the season or for the playoffs.

Horton did not play for another team during the 2012–13 NHL lockout and made his 2013 season debut for the Bruins on January 19, 2013, opening night against the New York Rangers. He ended the lockout-shortened 2012–13 season with 13 goals and nine assists for 22 points in 43 games. During the 2013 playoffs, Horton and the Bruins would go on another trip to the Stanley Cup Finals, reaching that far in the playoffs for the second time in three seasons, where they would lose in six games to the Presidents' Trophy-winning Chicago Blackhawks. During the run, Horton recorded seven goals and 12 assists for 19 points in all 22 games.

On the day of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, Horton's representatives confirmed he had informed Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli he would not be re-signing with Boston.[https://www.espn.com/blog/nhl/post/_/id/25794/horton-out-bs-willing-to-listen-on-seguin "Horton out; B's willing to listen on Seguin."] ESPN. Retrieved 2013-June-30.

=Columbus Blue Jackets=

On July 5, 2013, Horton signed a seven-year free agent contract worth $37.1 million with the Columbus Blue Jackets.{{Cite news|url=http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/22648612/nathan-horton-signs-with-blue-jackets-for-seven-seasons|title=Nathan Horton signs with Blue Jackets for seven seasons|last=Stubits|first=Brian|date=July 5, 2013|work=CBS Sports|access-date=July 5, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919225500/http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/nathan-horton-signs-with-blue-jackets-for-seven-seasons/|archive-date=September 19, 2016|url-status=dead}} However, off-season shoulder surgery would sideline Horton until January 2, 2014, when he finally made his Blue Jackets debut and scored the game-winning goal in a 2–0 victory over the Phoenix Coyotes.{{Cite news|url=https://nesn.com/2014/01/nathan-horton-scores-in-blue-jackets-debut-says-its-so-exciting-to-be-back-in-return-to-nhl-play/|title=Nathan Horton Scores in Blue Jackets Debut, Says 'It's So Exciting to Be Back' in Return to NHL Play|date=January 3, 2014|work=New England Sports Network|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813071045/https://nesn.com/2014/01/nathan-horton-scores-in-blue-jackets-debut-says-its-so-exciting-to-be-back-in-return-to-nhl-play/|archive-date=August 13, 2018|url-status=live|agency=Associated Press}}

During the first period of a March 10, 2014 game against the Dallas Stars, Horton scored a goal to put the Blue Jackets ahead, 1–0. Shortly thereafter, Dallas Stars center (and Horton's former Bruins teammate) Rich Peverley collapsed on the bench. Play was suspended, and on April 9, 2014, the game restarted from the beginning, with the Blue Jackets leading, 1–0. Horton was unavailable for the restarted game due to an injury, but his goal from the original game was still recorded in official statistics, making him the only NHL player known to score in a game in which he did not play.{{Cite web |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/columbus-f-nathan-horton-credited-with-goal-despite-missing-makeup-game-in-dallas-with-injury/c-713641 |title=Columbus F Nathan Horton credited with goal despite missing makeup game in Dallas with injury |access-date=2020-03-24 |archive-date=2020-03-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200324015302/https://www.nhl.com/news/columbus-f-nathan-horton-credited-with-goal-despite-missing-makeup-game-in-dallas-with-injury/c-713641 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2014-04-09 |title=Nathan Horton out vs. Stars, will have goal in game he doesn't play |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/nathan-horton-out-vs-stars-will-have-goal-in-game-he-doesnt-play/ |access-date=2023-10-19 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en}}

In October 2014, Horton was diagnosed with a degenerative back injury of the lumbar region that ended his 2014–15 season and threatened to end his career.{{Cite news|url = http://bluejacketsxtra.dispatch.com/content/stories/2014/10/22/1021-blue-jackets-horton.html|title = Blue Jackets: Back injury threatening Nathan Horton's season, and career|last = Portzline|first = Aaron|date = October 21, 2014|work = Columbus Dispatch|access-date = October 21, 2014|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141022004742/http://bluejacketsxtra.dispatch.com/content/stories/2014/10/22/1021-blue-jackets-horton.html|archive-date = October 22, 2014|url-status = dead}}

=Toronto Maple Leafs=

On February 26, 2015, with Horton on the long-term injured list and with no sign of return, he was traded due to financial considerations by the Blue Jackets to the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for David Clarkson. The trade allowed the Maple Leafs to get rid of Clarkson's unfavorable contract, while Horton's presence on the long-term injury list meant Toronto would not need to count his contract towards the salary cap.{{Cite news|url=https://www.tsn.ca/leafs-trade-clarkson-to-jackets-for-horton-1.217149|title=Leafs ship Clarkson to Columbus for Horton|date=February 26, 2015|work=The Sports Network|access-date=February 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180724183555/https://www.tsn.ca/leafs-trade-clarkson-to-jackets-for-horton-1.217149|archive-date=July 24, 2018|url-status=live|agency=The Canadian Press}} Horton would not play a single game for the Leafs; he failed every single physical before each season with the team.{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/hockey/news/maple-leafs-nathan-horton-fails-medical/|title=Maple Leafs' Nathan Horton: Fails medical|date=September 14, 2017|work=CBS Sports|access-date=July 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180724183640/https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/hockey/news/maple-leafs-nathan-horton-fails-medical/|archive-date=July 24, 2018|url-status=live|agency=RotoWire}}

Personal life

Horton married Canadian model Tammy Plante, the great-niece of NHL goaltending great Jacques Plante, on July 7, 2007.{{cite news |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=MH&s_site=miami&p_multi=MH&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=11C1CD39F3D053F8&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |title=Panthers: Horton blossoming into star for Panthers, Nathan Horton, who at times displayed signs of immaturity last season, is blossoming into one of the Panthers' top stars |date=October 6, 2007 |work=The Miami Herald |access-date=November 1, 2009 |archive-date=October 20, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020224152/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=MH&s_site=miami&p_multi=MH&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=11C1CD39F3D053F8&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |url-status=live }} They have three sons together.{{cite web|url=https://www.masslive.com/bruins/index.ssf/2013/07/ex-bruin_nathan_horton_says_penguin_helped_him_choose_blue_jackets.html|title=Ex-Bruin Nathan Horton says penguin helped him choose Blue Jackets|last=Miller|first=Rusty|date=July 5, 2013|website=MassLive|agency=Associated Press|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190527235518/https://www.masslive.com/bruins/2013/07/ex-bruin_nathan_horton_says_penguin_helped_him_choose_blue_jackets.html|archive-date=May 27, 2019|url-status=live|access-date=November 16, 2018}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/tammymhorton/|title=Harbasant Kaur🦋 (@tammymhorton) • Instagram photos and videos|website=instagram.com|access-date=April 13, 2019|archive-date=May 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190521000608/https://www.instagram.com/tammymhorton/|url-status=live}}

Career statistics

=Regular season and playoffs=

border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center; width:60em"
bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! colspan="3" bgcolor="#ffffff" \| ! rowspan="99" bgcolor="#ffffff" \| ! colspan="5" \| Regular season ! rowspan="99" bgcolor="#ffffff" \| ! colspan="5" \| Playoffs
bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! Season ! Team ! League ! GP ! G ! A ! Pts ! PIM ! GP ! G ! A ! Pts ! PIM
1998–99 \| Thorold Blackhawks \| GHJHL \| 47	4	13	17	8 \| —	—	—	—	—
bgcolor="#f0f0f0" \| 1999–2000 \| Welland Tigers AAA \| OMHA \| 44	41	51	92	34 \| —	—	—	—	—
2000–01 \| Thorold Blackhawks \| GHJHL \| 41	16	31	47	75 \| 15	6	11	17	36
bgcolor="#f0f0f0" \| 2001–02 \| Oshawa Generals \| OHL \| 64	31	36	67	84 \| 5	1	2	3	10
2002–03 \| Oshawa Generals \| OHL \| 54	33	35	68	111 \| 13	9	6	15	10
bgcolor="#f0f0f0" \| 2003–04 \| Florida Panthers \| NHL \| 55	14	8	22	57 \| —	—	—	—	—
2004–05 \| San Antonio Rampage \| AHL \| 21	5	4	9	21 \| —	—	—	—	—
bgcolor="#f0f0f0" \| 2005–06 \| Florida Panthers \| NHL \| 71	28	19	47	89 \| —	—	—	—	—
2006–07 \| Florida Panthers \| NHL \| 82	31	31	62	61 \| —	—	—	—	—
bgcolor="#f0f0f0" \| 2007–08 \| Florida Panthers \| NHL \| 82	27	35	62	85 \| —	—	—	—	—
2008–09 \| Florida Panthers \| NHL \| 67	22	23	45	48 \| —	—	—	—	—
bgcolor="#f0f0f0" \| 2009–10 \| Florida Panthers \| NHL \| 65	20	37	57	42 \| —	—	—	—	—
2010–11 \| Boston Bruins \| NHL \| 80	26	27	53	85 \| 21	8	9	17	35
bgcolor="#f0f0f0" \| 2011–12 \| Boston Bruins \| NHL \| 46	17	15	32	54 \| —	—	—	—	—
2012–13 \| Boston Bruins \| NHL \| 43	13	9	22	22 \| 22	7	12	19	14
bgcolor="#f0f0f0" \| 2013–14 \| Columbus Blue Jackets \| NHL \| 36	5	14	19	24 \| —	—	—	—	—
bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! colspan="3" \| NHL totals ! 627 !! 203 !! 218 !! 421 !! 567 ! 43 !! 15 !! 21 !! 36 !! 49