In an incredible turn of events, the Florida Panthers have reportedly locked in Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett, and Aaron Ekblad for the long haul. Now, the prospect of an NHL dynasty in the salary cap era feels more real than ever. However, lost in the buzz was one crucial—yet controversial—decision regarding Matthew Tkachuk.
Keeping all three of the top pending free agents would always come at a price for the Panthers. It turned out to be a relatively cheap one, and one the Cats and their fans would gladly foot the bill time and again. Especially if it leads to the success it has in the past two NHL seasons.
Marchand, Bennett, and Ekblad are now joining the list of stars in Florida who will be under contract—at least—through the 2029-30 season. The Panthers are built to compete now and tomorrow, as well.
However, a key decision regarding Tkachuk has seemingly flown under the radar amid the offseason frenzy. The Panthers have reportedly made a controversial move involving him, one that may have paved the way for Marchand’s rumored six-year, $32 million extension.
According to PuckPedia, Tkachuk is listed on LTIR and considered month-to-month for a groin injury. The same issue that had sidelined him for the remainder of the NHL regular season after the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Controversy
The use—and perceived exploitation—of LTIR-related dead cap space has become a hot topic in the NHL. After several teams made deep playoff runs aided by the additional flexibility it provides, the league has decided to step in, with changes expected in the near future.
However, in the meantime, franchises continue to take advantage of this ‘loophole,’ and the outcry is growing louder. Now, if placing Tkachuk on LTIR is indeed what allowed Florida to re-sign Marchand, the controversy could reach a whole new level.
Injury-riddled
While the NHL universe might react angrily to Tkachuk’s placement on LTIR, there’s no doubt the forward has dealt with several injuries, making it entirely reasonable for Florida to use that spot if he’s not expected to be fully healthy by October.
As Tkachuk himself revealed after the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, he suffered torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia injury on the same side. To make matter worse, he tore his adductor from the bone.