Panthers Defenseman Aaron Ekblad Nears Free Agency After Third Stanley Cup Final

Aaron Ekblad, the Florida Panthers' longtime defenseman and 2014 first overall draft pick, is playing the final year of an eight-year contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future with the team, Ekblad has expressed a strong desire to remain with the Panthers, stating he lives and breathes for the franchise and wants to continue playing for them as long as possible. Ekblad has been a cornerstone of the Panthers' defense for over a decade, overcoming injuries and suspensions while helping lead the team to its first Stanley Cup victory in 2023 and now competing in his third consecutive Final. While the Panthers have acquired younger defensemen like Seth Jones, which fuels speculation about Ekblad’s tenure, he remains hopeful that he could return, potentially by accepting a reduced contract. Throughout his career, Ekblad has set franchise records in games played, goals, assists, and points by a defenseman, solidifying his legacy in South Florida. As the playoffs continue, both Ekblad and the Panthers aim to secure another Stanley Cup, which would further strengthen his desire to stay with the team.