📰 Offseason Outlook: Panthers’ Dynasty in Motion After Back-to-Back Stanley Cups The Florida Panthers have solidified their position as NHL’s current dynasty after winning their second straight Stanley Cup in June 2025, defeating the Edmonton Oilers in a convincing Game 6 finish (5–1) that featured a four-goal explosion from Sam Reinhart. Conn Smythe Trophy winner Sam Bennett led the way alongside standout defender Sergei Bobrovsky, whose elite goaltending turned critics of high goalie contracts silent.

Instead of splurging in free agency, the Panthers opted for continuity—locking in their core. Key players Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand, and Aaron Ekblad all signed long-term deals in early July, combining for nearly $150 million in committed salary. Marchand inked a six-year, $31.5M extension, Ekblad signed for eight years at $48.8M, and Bennett received a $64M eight-year deal. The trio’s decision to stay earned praise as a cultural victory by GM Bill Zito.

To reinforce depth, Florida also added veteran defenseman Jeff Petry, signed goalie Daniil Tarasov, and re-signed forward Mackie Samoskevich, cementing a roster that includes 14 of the top 15 forwards and six of seven defensemen from their championship core. Despite these moves, the Panthers now sit over the salary cap by approximately $3.75M.

Hockey NHL

Looking ahead, the 2025 NHL Entry Draft presents limited options for Florida, as the team forfeited early-round selections in previous trades. Their first pick falls outside the third round, leaving scouting director decisions particularly critical. Meanwhile, other playoff teams—including Carolina and Vegas—made significant free agency acquisitions, intensifying the competition.

From a strategic standpoint, maintaining the championship roster under a tight cap demonstrates organizational discipline and belief in the internal culture. Critics debate whether long-term contracts for aging stars like Marchand and Bennett could hinder future flexibility, but for now the formula is built to chase a historic third cup. Analysts highlight goaltending uncertainty for rivals like Vegas and Chicago as additional advantages for Florida’s sustained success.

With training camps set to begin in September and the 2025–26 NHL season opening on October 7, the Panthers will raise the banner alongside the Chicago Blackhawks. Florida stands as the early favorite to represent the Eastern Conference in the Stanley Cup resurgence, but strengthening rosters across the league ensure their path to a three-peat will not be easy.