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2w ago

Panthers Cement Core With Long-Term Deals as Tkachuk’s Injury Eases Cap Crunch

By re-signing Marchand, Ekblad and Bennett under a tight cap structure, GM Bill Zito has secured the back-to-back champions’ core for a three-peat run.

Jun 6, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Florida Panthers center Brad Marchand (63) reacts after scoring a goal on Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner (74) during the second period in game two of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Brad Marchand agreed to a six-year, $31.5 million extension, citing the return of Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad as pivotal to his decision.
  • Aaron Ekblad committed to a six-year, $48.8 million deal and Sam Bennett also signed a long-term extension to finish his career in Sunrise.
  • General manager Bill Zito navigated salary cap limits by planning to place Matthew Tkachuk on long-term injured reserve during his hernia recovery.
  • Tkachuk’s hernia will sideline him at the start of the regular season and temporarily relieve Florida’s cap overage.
  • With its championship nucleus locked in and cap relief secured, the Panthers enter 2025-26 poised to chase the NHL’s first three-peat since the early 1980s.