The Florida Panthers are unlikely to trade their two-time All-Star defenseman, Aaron Ekblad, this season, according to Lyle Richardson of The Hockey News. Despite persistent trade rumors dating back to June, Ekblad is expected to remain with the team until the season’s end, regardless of his contract status. With one year left on his deal and a $7.5 million cap hit, Ekblad has a partial no-trade clause allowing him to block trades to 12 teams.
Entering his 11th season with the Panthers, the former first-overall pick has been a reliable player since joining the team. While it’s surprising that Florida hasn’t yet discussed an extension with their top defenseman, they are likely considering the long-term salary cap implications, especially with several key free agents next summer. Another factor is Ekblad’s health, as the 28-year-old has struggled to play a full season since 2018-19 and managed only 51 games last season with modest offensive production.
Aaron Ekblad
Trading Ekblad would be a difficult decision for the Panthers, as he is a core player, and any trade would require specific returns that fit into head coach Paul Maurice’s system and the tight-knit locker room. Many trade rumors have overlooked how general manager Bill Zito built his championship team and how he evaluates potential acquisitions.
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