The Florida Panthers are not only celebrating back-to-back Stanley Cups but also the contract extensions of Aaron Ekblad, Brad Marchand, and Sam Bennett. However, that glory comes with consequences heading into the 2025-26 NHL season, as the team is now over the salary cap.
The financial context forces the Panthers to make moves before next season after locking up key pieces. In Florida, they succeeded in setting priorities and secured essential deals to build a potential dynasty for the upcoming campaign.
In line with the need to clear space, the Sunrise franchise is already believed to have a player targeted for a trade this offseason, knowing that parting with an NHL Stanley Cup champion might strengthen a rival but accepting it as a necessary cost.
Which player might leave the Panthers?
The player reportedly targeted by the Panthers to relieve cap pressure is Evan Rodrigues, as described by NHL insider James Mirtle. “Florida’s going to lose somebody; they’re over the cap, they’re going to have to trade someone; people seem to think it’s going to be Evan Rodrigues,” he reported.
Evan Rodrigues, of the Panthers
Rodrigues’ salary is around $3 million per year, an amount that could allow the Panthers to balance their books without losing a core piece. The left wing played 75 games last season, scoring 15 goals and adding 27 assists.
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The Panthers’ extensions
Florida’s new contracts represent a significant figure against the salary cap. First, Bennett signed an eight-year, $64 million extension, nearly doubling his previous cap hit. Marchand agreed to a six-year deal worth $5.25 million per season, while Ekblad secured an eight-year, $48.48 million deal.
