NHL News: Panthers reportedly set to part ways with veteran to keep Brad Marchand, Aaron Ekblad, and Sam Bennett

The Florida Panthers are heading into an offseason with the clear priority of securing the future of three stars who played key roles in their NHL back-to-back championships. Veteran Brad Marchand is in talks with the franchise, alongside Conn Smythe-winning center Sam Bennett and defenseman Aaron Ekblad.

In Sunrise, team leadership is starting to evaluate what it will take to retain the core players who helped deliver consecutive Stanley Cups. Marchand and Bennett appear to be in fluid negotiations, while talks with Ekblad could gain momentum soon.

The truth is that none of the three have finalized a new deal, and time is running out. On July 1, Bennett, Marchand, and Ekblad will all become free agents if no agreements are reached. These are tense hours in Florida, where the team may be preparing to make a cap-clearing move.

Which veteran could leave the Panthers to free up cap space?

According to NHL insider Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet, the veteran Florida may be willing to part ways with to create space and re-sign Marchand, Bennett, and Ekblad is none other than left wing Evan Rodrigues. “He is one to watch as a potential cap casualty,” Kypreos reported.

Evan Rodrigues of the Panthers

Kypreos’ report suggests that the Panthers could move on from Rodrigues not for performance reasons, but due to financial strategy, especially if they aim to re-sign key contributors like Bennett and Marchand while staying under the salary cap.

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NHL News: Panthers receive latest update on Brad Marchand’s future while also negotiating with Sam Bennett

The latest on Marchand, Bennett, and Ekblad

New developments have emerged in all three cases. Marchand’s status remains fluid, but insider Nick Alberga reported there is a “good chance” he re-signs. Bennett’s extension talks hit a snag after discussions reportedly stalled. Meanwhile, Ekblad appears to be nearing a new deal. Any cap relief could be critical in facilitating all three negotiations.