Florida Panthers are in a crucial offseason situation, negotiating extensions for Brad Marchand, star forward Sam Bennett, and legendary defenseman Aaron Ekblad. These aren’t casual talks, the back-to-back NHL champions are looking to make a strong statement.
Building a dynasty is no easy feat, especially after winning the league two years in a row. In that sense, the Panthers’ front office now faces the possible departure of three stars, all close to becoming free agents and highly sought-after on the market.
Bennett remains the top priority, and reports from earlier this week suggest an eight-year extension offer from Florida, which would keep the standout performer from the Finals win over the Edmonton Oilers on the roster. However, the latest twist involves the Panthers’ approach to Marchand’s offer.
What would the Panthers’ offer to Marchand look like?
“They’re talking to Brad Marchand. It’s still in the early stages, but trying to look at around three years, somewhere in that $5 to $6 million range,” NHL insider David Pagnotta said on The Fourth Period podcast. According to this information, the 37-year-old forward could have this offer on the table, while also competing with a potential deal from the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Brad Marchand #63 of the Florida Panthers takes the ice prior to Game Four of the Eastern Conference Final against the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena on May 26, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.
Panthers standing firm on extensions
As Pagnotta explained on The Fourth Period, the Panthers are determined to keep Marchand, Ekblad, and Bennett. “We were told today they’re legitimately trying to keep all three. Bill Zito (general manager) has got some work cut out for him,” Pagnotta revealed.
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“At first it looked like maybe they’d only keep two, but it looks like Sam Bennett’s contract is going to be in and around eight by eight. That would mean Aaron Ekblad would have to take something in the $6 million range to stay in Florida,” Pagnotta concluded.
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