The Panthers have re-signed two of their key pieces from their most recent Stanley Cup run, managing to squeeze them in under the salary cap.
Taking advantage of Florida’s lack of state income tax, the Florida team successfully re-signed forward Brad Marchand and defenseman Aaron Ekblad on Monday, just a day before the NHL free agency commenced.
Marchand, aged 37, secured a six-year contract with an average annual value of $5.25 million, whereas Ekblad, at 29, signed an eight-year deal with a $6.1 million AAV.
Despite likely having the potential to earn significantly more in free agency, Ekblad, the top pick in the 2014 NHL Draft by the Panthers, has been a key player since then. He transitioned from being a Calder Trophy winner to leading the team to consecutive Cup victories and three consecutive Cup Final appearances.
The 11-year veteran, a two-time All-Star, is also the first-ever Panthers defenseman to reach 300 points in his career.
Marchand was also with one team for his entire career until the Bruins traded him during the 2024-25 season to the Panthers.
The Athletic previously reported that the Bruins were interested in a reunion with Marchand if he reached free agency, and that the Maple Leafs were potential suitors.
Marchand was part of the Bruins team that won the 2011 Stanley Cup in his second year in the league.
And he was a huge reason the Panthers were able to repeat this season, putting up 10 goals and 10 assists in 23 playoff games.
The Panthers were also able to re-sign Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett to an eight-year, $64 million deal.
The band is back together in South Florida, and a dynasty could be in the offing.
