Despite battling the salary cap challenge, the Florida Panthers were successful in retaining crucial players like Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad through strategic roster management and a long term contract.
Matthew Tkachuk on Florida Panthers retaining key players
The Florida Panthers were able to win this year's Stanley Cup and their second on the trot after defeating the Edmonton Oilers. This was the main reason that the franchise was able to convince the players to stay for a below market contracts.
Aaron Ekblad signed an eight year extension with a $6.1 million AAV. This is actually less than the $10 million+ he could have asked in the open market as a defenseman. Similarly, Sam Bennett took the same route as he signed an eight year, $64 million deal ($8 million AAV), taking a $10 million discount from offers elsewhere and prioritizing to stay with a team which contends for the championship.
Brad Marchand signed a six year deal, $32 million extension ($5.33 million AAV) to stay with the Florida Panthers. Matthew Tkachuk shared his honest thoughts on the franchise after their move to retain key players despite salary cap constraints.
When asked if he was upset about Brad Marchand joining the team, Tkachuk said,
I loved it. I knew that was a guy, with Seth Jones, who could put us over the hump. Now they’re here for the next five years — Marchy, six. Two culture guys and glue guys we’re lucky to have.
No. I find it funny that hockey players want to stay in South Florida to play hockey — and will stay for less money. That’s amazing. It’s the greatest place to play in the NHL. Hopefully we’re not stopping at two, he added.
Matthew Tkachuk's contract with the Florida Panthers
Matthew Tkachuk joined the Florida Panthers back in 2022 after being traded from the Calgary Flames. He has been with the Panthers for the last three seasons and has won two back to back championships.
He is currently signed on an eight year deal, worth a whopping $76 million. He signed the contract back in 2022. Since his arrival, he has accumulated 57 points through 22 goals and 35 assists in the 52 games last season. During the playoffs, he has 23 points which include eight goals and 15 assists.
Matthew Tkachuk was drafted No. 6 overall by the Calgary Flames in 2016b NHL draft. He has 636 points to his name that includes 240 goals and 396 assists in 642 career games.