Aaron Ekblad was drafted by the Florida Panthers all the way back in the 2014 NHL Draft at No. 1 overall, and after struggling with the team for so long, he finally saw them rise to the top this season. In what is a brutal decision however, it appears the team are now placing him on the trade block ahead of what's meant to be a crazy off-season for the NHL.
That report come from David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, and while there's yet to be any official confirmation from the team or agent, it would make sense for Florida. Ekblad is in the final year of a massive eight-year contract, with his cap hit sitting at $7.5 million for the 2025 campaign, and at 28-years of age, now is the time to get the best return for him.
Given the need for defenseman around the league, there should be solid interest in Ekblad, and with Florida looking to use that money to find extra depth, it certainly makes sense for the team. While fans understand that, they certainly won't be happy to see the teams longest tenured player go however.
We will wait and see if a deal materializes over the summer, and if he is moved, Ekblad will be remembered for a long time in Florida as one of the franchises all-time greats.
