Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad, a key player in the franchise’s first Stanley Cup victory, has been the subject of persistent trade rumors as he approaches free agency. Despite the speculation, it appears Ekblad will remain with the team for the 2024-25 season, according to Lyle Richardson of The Hockey News.
“With the offseason departure of Brandon Montour, Ekblad is likely to take on top-pairing right-side minutes on the blueline this season,” Richardson noted on August 23. “Trading him now would further weaken their right-side depth. Expect Ekblad to play out this season with the defending Stanley Cup champions.”
Ekblad, who will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2025, has been mentioned in trade discussions since June. However, Richardson believes the 28-year-old will remain a crucial part of the Panthers’ roster, at least through the end of the season. Ekblad is entering the final year of his eight-year, $60 million contract, which he signed in July 2016. His current deal includes a modified no-trade clause, allowing him to block trades to 12 teams before the next trade deadline.
Given the Panthers’ apparent commitment to keeping their championship-winning roster intact, a trade involving Ekblad seems unlikely. However, the possibility remains that the team could move him before the next offseason to avoid losing him for nothing, especially considering his recent injury history. Ekblad played just 51 games last season and hasn’t completed a full 82-game season since 2018-19.
Despite these concerns, Ekblad’s importance to the Panthers’ success makes him a vital piece of their lineup as they look to defend their Stanley Cup title.
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