In a move to solidify their defensive core, the Florida Panthers have signed defenseman Aaron Ekblad to an eight-year contract extension. The deal, announced on Monday, June 30, 2025, is worth $48.8 million and carries an average annual value (AAV) of $6.1 million. This extension ensures that Ekblad, a cornerstone of the Panthers' defense, will remain in South Florida through the 2032-33 season.
Ekblad, who would have become an unrestricted free agent (UFA) on July 1, made it clear that he desired to stay with the Panthers. The commitment from the Panthers comes after what reports say were months of internal hesitancy to offer a long-term deal. Ultimately, General Manager Bill Zito acquiesced, granting Ekblad the long-term security he sought. Some reports indicate that Ekblad could have commanded a cap hit as high as $9 million on the open market.
The 29-year-old Ekblad has spent his entire 11-season NHL career with the Florida Panthers since being drafted first overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Over that time, he has become a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the team. He also holds numerous Panthers defensive records, including most games played (732), goals (118), and points (380).
In the 2024-25 regular season, Ekblad recorded three goals and 33 points in 56 games. He also contributed 106 shots on net, 64 blocked shots, and 90 hits. Despite a 20-game suspension during the 2025 season for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug policy, Ekblad returned to play a key role in the Panthers' second consecutive Stanley Cup victory, tallying four goals and nine assists in the playoffs.
With Ekblad locked in, the Panthers have addressed one of their major offseason priorities. This signing, along with the recent extension of Sam Bennett, demonstrates the Panthers' commitment to maintaining a competitive roster. The team now has approximately $4.9 million in remaining cap space to address other needs. Ekblad is expected to return to Florida's top defensive pairing in the 2025-26 campaign and will likely see significant time on the power play.
