The Florida Panthers, fresh off their first-ever Stanley Cup victory, are gearing up for the 2024-25 season with hopes of repeating their championship success. As they prepare to defend their title, the team has secured a crucial piece of their roster—28-year-old defenseman Aaron Ekblad—despite swirling rumors of a potential trade.
Ekblad, the first overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft and a Calder Trophy winner, is entering the final year of his eight-year contract, which carries a $7.5 million annual cap hit. This contract has sparked speculation about his future with the Panthers, but for now, he remains firmly in South Florida.
Ekblad’s Contract: A Bargain or a Burden?
Compared to other elite defensemen, Ekblad’s $7.5 million salary is relatively modest. For instance, Seth Jones of the Chicago Blackhawks earns $9.5 million per year, while the Edmonton Oilers’ Darnell Nurse makes $9.25 million annually. Despite Ekblad’s lower salary, he just misses the top 25 most expensive defensemen in the NHL by a mere $80,000.
However, that doesn’t mean Ekblad’s contract is easy for every team to take on. Only eight teams currently have the cap space to absorb his deal, making it a significant commitment for any potential trade partner.
If Ekblad Were Traded, He’d Likely Be a Short-Term Rental
Should Panthers GM Bill Zito consider moving Ekblad, it’s likely any team acquiring him would see him as a rental player rather than a long-term addition. Given Ekblad’s contributions over the past two seasons, including his role in the Panthers’ Stanley Cup win, he could command a raise in next year’s free agency. But with his current salary already substantial, many teams might struggle to offer him a bigger contract.
Even teams with ample cap space, like the Detroit Red Wings or Columbus Blue Jackets, may hesitate to commit to a long-term extension for Ekblad. If a trade were to happen, Ekblad could find himself playing for multiple teams before settling on a permanent home.
The Price for Ekblad Could Be Steep
If a team is willing to take on Ekblad’s contract, Zito could seek a significant return. However, with the Panthers lacking first-, second-, and third-round picks in the 2025 NHL Draft, the asking price might be steep. Teams would have to weigh Ekblad’s value against his injury history and salary demands.
Ekblad Stays in Florida…For Now
For now, Ekblad remains a cornerstone of the Panthers’ defense, and fans can breathe a sigh of relief. While his contract situation and potential trade rumors add uncertainty to his future, the Panthers have made it clear that trading him is not on the immediate agenda. However, in the unpredictable world of the NHL, surprises can happen at any moment.
As the Panthers embark on their quest for back-to-back championships, Ekblad will continue to be a key player in their lineup, at least for the 2024-25 season.
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