NHL News: Panthers GM Bill Zito drops major hint on when Brad Marchand and Aaron Ekblad could sign new deals

The Florida Panthers are entering a decisive stretch as they look to secure the future of two of their stars: forward Brad Marchand and defenseman Aaron Ekblad. The team’s general manager, Bill Zito, has spoken publicly and dropped a strong hint about when he expects to finalize deals with both players.

The back-to-back NHL champions recently signed Sam Bennett to an eight-year, $64 million deal (AAV of $8 million) and are now focused on re-signing their two other key free agents, Marchand and Ekblad. July 1 looms as the date when both players could potentially hit the open market.

Negotiations with Marchand and Ekblad have dragged on for quite some time due to the priority of completing Bennett’s extension first. The Panthers front office in Sunrise is now working against the clock to keep their dynasty intact, and Zito mentioned there is a clear deadline.

When will Marchand and Ekblad sign?

According to insider George Richards on NHL.com, “Bill Zito isn’t ruling out signing both players before Tuesday,” signaling that Florida is confident both players will agree to extensions before becoming unrestricted free agents eligible to negotiate with other teams.

Brad Marchand #63 of the Florida Panthers warms up before a game against the before playing the Edmonton Oilers in Game Four of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 12, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.

“If what I think isn’t accurate, and it might not be, OK. We have a Plan B and a Plan C. But my preference, and maybe I’m hoping, is that there’s enough for guys to want to stay and be part of this, be treated fairly and be happy. And that’s the most important thing,” Zito said recently, offering more detail on the ongoing talks.

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NHL News: Brad Marchand has a strong suitor pursuing him if he parts ways with Matthew Tkachuk’s Panthers

Marchand’s stance on his future with the Panthers

“These have been the best months of my career. There’s an incredible group here. I enjoyed every second and hope it keeps going,” said the 37-year-old forward in recent comments. According to insider Paul Bissonnette, Florida is expected to offer him a three-year contract.