Panthers Extend Ekblad With 8-Year Contract

The Florida Panthers have signed defenseman Aaron Ekblad to an eight-year, $48.8 million contract extension, keeping him with the team through the 2032-33 season at an average annual value of $6.1 million, down from his previous $7.5 million deal. Ekblad has spent his entire 11-year NHL career with the Panthers and was instrumental in their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories. The extension addresses a major offseason priority for Florida and follows the re-signing of Sam Bennett, further solidifying the team’s core. Ekblad publicly expressed his loyalty and desire to remain a Panther for his entire career. Some fans are concerned about limited cap space and its effect on re-signing free agents like Brad Marchand. Despite questions about his durability due to injuries and a 20-game suspension, Ekblad remains a central figure in the Panthers’ defense.