Red Wings Pegged as Top Fit for Panthers Star Defenseman Aaron Ekblad
Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad, fresh off back-to-back Stanley Cup championships, is being linked to the Detroit Red Wings as a potential free agent destination. With his eight-year, $60 million contract now complete and Florida facing serious salary cap constraints, Ekblad could be on the move this offseason. NHL analyst Matt Larkin of DailyFaceoff believes Detroit is the ideal landing spot for the veteran blueliner.
“The Red Wings clearly need help on defense to support Simon Edvinsson and Moritz Seider,” Larkin wrote. “That’s why I named them as serious contenders in potential trade talks for Rasmus Andersson and Noah Dobson. While they certainly have the draft picks and prospects to make a splash that way, GM Steve Yzerman could also simply sign Ekblad without giving up assets.”
Although Ekblad hasn’t quite lived up to the lofty expectations that came with being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft, Larkin notes he remains a reliable top-pair defenseman and two-time Cup champion who would be a notable upgrade over Detroit’s current depth options like Justin Holl and Jeff Petry.
At 29, Ekblad brings physicality, experience, and leadership — all of which could bolster Detroit’s blue line. He’s also a native of Windsor, Ontario, located just across the border from Detroit, making a return to the area a logical fit on a personal level. Last season, Ekblad posted 3 goals and 30 assists over 56 games.
Ekblad Prefers to Stay in Florida
Despite the speculation, Ekblad has publicly expressed a desire to remain in Florida. Speaking during the Panthers’ championship celebrations, he called the franchise “home” and said he hopes to return.
“I’ve spent 11 years here — more time than I’ve lived in any other place,” Ekblad said during exit interviews. “It’s part of who I am. I expect to be back.”
While talks between Ekblad and the Panthers are ongoing, no firm agreement has been reached, and both sides are preparing for last-minute negotiations.
Ekblad ranks second in franchise history in games played (732) and leads all Panthers defensemen in career goals, assists, and points.
Red Wings Hope to Make a Splash in Free Agency
Though Detroit has missed the playoffs for nine consecutive seasons, general manager Steve Yzerman remains optimistic about attracting top-tier free agents.
“When players hit free agency, they’re all looking for different things,” Yzerman said. “Whether it’s winning a Cup, getting the best financial deal, or joining friends, each guy has different priorities. I don’t think our playoff drought has been a dealbreaker, and I don’t expect it to be one this year either.”
With over $21.3 million in salary cap space entering the offseason, Detroit is in a strong position to pursue impactful signings like Ekblad — if he becomes available.