The Florida Panthers are navigating a three-part situation this offseason. The back-to-back NHL champions have a clear priority list regarding the contract extensions of Sam Bennett, veteran Brad Marchand, and defenseman Aaron Ekblad.
The Panthers have identified Bennett as their top priority, especially after it was revealed during the championship celebrations that the franchise wants to keep him for another eight years. The Conn Smythe Trophy winner has also expressed his desire to stay with the team, though talks are currently on hold.
Marchand, nearing the end of his career, faces an uncertain future. After a long tenure with the Boston Bruins, the 37-year-old veteran finally won the Stanley Cup and is now close to hitting free agency. Although there are positive signs pointing toward an extension, recent reports suggest he may not be the most likely of the trio to re-sign.
The way Marchand could extend his contract with the Panthers
“The best way for Florida to ease some of the salary cap restrictions, if they were to sign Marchand, would be to offer him a longer-term contract, spreading the money over more years and reducing the AAV in the process,” Pierre LeBrun told The Athletic regarding the best way to extend Marchand’s contract.
Brad Marchand #63 of the Florida Panthers looks on during the second period against the Edmonton Oilers in Game Six of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 17, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.
The ranking of re-signing chances between Bennett, Marchand, and Ekblad
“If I were to rank the probability of all three major pending unrestricted free agents on the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers sticking around, it would be: 1) Sam Bennett, 2) Brad Marchand, and 3) Aaron Ekblad,” NHL insider Pierre LeBrun said.
see also
NHL News: Panthers reportedly set to part ways with veteran to keep Brad Marchand, Aaron Ekblad, and Sam Bennett
Is Ekblad on his way out of Florida?
According to LeBrun, Ekblad ranks third in terms of likelihood to stay. His contract situation is more complicated, mainly due to his current $7.5 million salary. The longtime Panthers cornerstone appears to be a lower priority compared to his two teammates.
