Marchand & Ekblad resigned – Pictured: Florida Panthers — Credit: Bruce Bennett
The Panthers managed to fit two of their key players from their most recent Stanley Cup run under the wage cap by re-signing them.
Florida re-signed defender Aaron Ekblad and winger Brad Marchand on Monday, one day before NHL free agency began, thanks to their state’s exemption from income tax.
Ekblad, 29, received an eight-year contract with an average yearly value of $6.1 million, while Marchand, 37, agreed to a six-year deal worth $5.25 million.
Ekblad, who probably could have sold for much more on the free market, was selected by the Panthers with the first overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft. Since then, he has been a mainstay, helping the team win back-to-back Cups and make three consecutive appearances in the Cup Finals.
In addition to being a two-time All-Star, the 11-year veteran is the only defenseman in Panthers history to score 300 points in a career.
Additionally, Marchand spent his whole career with a single team before being traded to the Panthers by the Bruins in the 2024–25 season.
According to earlier reports from The Athletic, the Maple Leafs were possible bidders for Marchand, and the Bruins were interested in a reunion with him if he became a free agent.
In his second season in the league, Marchand played with the Bruins, who won the 2011 Stanley Cup.
And with 10 goals and 10 assists in 23 playoff games, he played a major role in the Panthers’ ability to repeat this season.
Sam Bennett, the Conn Smythe winner, was also able to secure an eight-year, $64 million contract with the Panthers.
A dynasty may be on the horizon as the band reunites in South Florida.
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Born and raised in South Florida, Krystal is a recent graduate from the University of Miami with professional writing experience at the collegiate and national news outlet levels. She’s a foodie who loves all things travel, the beach, & visiting new places throughout Florida.