The reigning back-to-back Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers are keeping one of their foundational pieces in the fold. Veteran defenseman Aaron Ekblad has agreed to an eight-year contract extension with the Panthers worth $6.1 million per year, sources told ESPN on Monday, confirming an earlier report by TSN. The deal ensures the 29-year-old blueliner will not hit the open market when NHL free agency begins Tuesday — a significant move by Florida to retain one of the cornerstones of its recent success.
Ekblad, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft, has been a central figure on the Panthers’ blue line for more than a decade. With 118 goals and 380 points in 732 career games, he’s built a reputation as a reliable, two-way defenseman capable of logging big minutes and anchoring both special teams units.
Though his production dipped in the past two regular seasons — just seven goals and 51 points in 107 games — Ekblad remained a vital presence, averaging over 23 minutes of ice time per game. His availability was limited during the 2024-25 campaign due to a 20-game suspension for violating the NHL/NHLPA performance enhancement substances program, a ban that also cut into his playoff eligibility.
However, once back in the lineup, Ekblad reminded the hockey world of his postseason value. He posted four goals and 13 points across 19 playoff games, helping the Panthers win their second straight Stanley Cup, again defeating the Edmonton Oilers in the Final.
The decision to re-sign with Florida was an easy one for Ekblad, who reportedly left several million dollars per season on the table in favor of long-term security with a championship-caliber team.
“Winning is everything. This is home. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” Ekblad told reporters in a brief statement released by the team.
General manager Bill Zito has been aggressive this offseason in keeping the Panthers’ core intact. Earlier this month, Florida locked up playoff MVP Sam Bennett with an eight-year, $64 million extension. Ekblad’s new deal continues that trend, reinforcing the Panthers’ commitment to continuity as they pursue a potential three-peat.
With Ekblad and Bennett both secured for the long haul, Florida enters the offseason with a strong sense of stability. For a franchise that just a few years ago was searching for its identity, the Panthers now boast a dynasty in the making — and the players want to be a part of it.
