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Panthers Lock In Niko Mikkola With Eight-Year, $40 Million Extension

The move secures Florida's top-four defense through at least 2030 during a stretch of injuries to key forwards.

Overview

  • The deal begins in 2026–27 and runs through 2033–34, with financial terms reported at $40 million ($5 million AAV) though not released by the team.
  • With Mikkola signed, Florida’s top four of Gustav Forsling, Aaron Ekblad and Seth Jones is under long-term control through at least 2030.
  • Mikkola was poised for unrestricted free agency next summer after a three-year, $7.5 million contract he signed in 2023.
  • A two-time Stanley Cup winner in Florida, he logged heavy minutes and scored the Game 3 winner in the 2025 Eastern Conference Final.
  • The commitment bolsters roster continuity as the Panthers start the season without injured stars Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk.