Panthers Shock NHL, Shift to Sellers After Back-to-Back Stanley Cup Wins
Sunrise, FL – March 4, 2026 – In a stunning turn of events, the Florida Panthers, reigning two-time Stanley Cup champions, are pivoting to become sellers ahead of Friday’s trade deadline. The decision comes as the team sits 10 points out of a playoff spot following a third consecutive loss Tuesday night to the Novel Jersey Devils. According to TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun, the Panthers will begin listening to offers for pending unrestricted free agents, most notably star goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky and forward A.J. Greer. Whereas Bobrovsky holds a 16-team no-trade list, LeBrun cautioned that Florida simply opening discussions doesn’t guarantee a deal will be made. The 37-year-old Bobrovsky, who led the Panthers to championships in 2024 and 2025, has a 22-19-1 record this season. Greer, 29, has recorded 11 goals and 22 points in 61 games this season.
Panthers Poised for Trade Deadline Sell-Off: Bobrovsky, Greer Available
The Florida Panthers are reportedly shifting gears, transitioning from potential buyers to sellers as the NHL trade deadline approaches this Friday at 3 p.m. ET. Currently sitting 10 points out of a playoff spot following a third consecutive loss, the team is now listening to offers for pending unrestricted free agents, most notably veteran goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky and forward AJ Greer.
Bobrovsky’s Future: A Complex Equation
Sergei Bobrovsky, a two-time Vezina Trophy winner and a key figure in the Panthers’ recent Stanley Cup successes in 2024 and 2025, carries a $10 million cap hit and possesses a 16-team no-trade list. This presents a significant challenge for any potential suitors. Despite a 22-19-1 record this season with an .873 save percentage, his pedigree remains undeniable.
Did you know? Bobrovsky is eighth all-time in goalie wins with 451, showcasing his longevity and consistent performance throughout his career.
The Panthers’ decision to listen to offers doesn’t guarantee a trade will materialize, as TSN’s Pierre LeBrun emphasized. However, it signals a willingness to explore options and potentially rebuild for the future. Similar situations have unfolded with other veteran goalies in recent years, such as Marc-Andre Fleury’s moves to contending teams late in his career, demonstrating the value of experience during playoff runs.
Greer’s Market: A Cost-Effective Option
Alongside Bobrovsky, forward AJ Greer is also available. Greer, 29, has contributed 11 goals and 22 points in 61 games this season, operating on a cap-friendly contract with an $850,000 cap hit. His affordability could make him an attractive target for teams seeking depth scoring without significant financial commitment.
This mirrors the strategy employed by the Boston Bruins last season, acquiring players like Tyler Bertuzzi and Patrice Bergeron to bolster their roster for a playoff push without sacrificing long-term cap flexibility.
Playoff Implications and Potential Suitors
The Panthers’ struggles, highlighted by a recent 5-1 loss to the New Jersey Devils, have prompted this shift in strategy. The team had briefly shown promise with a 5-1 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs prior to the Olympic break, but the losing streak has underscored the demand for change.
Potential suitors for Bobrovsky include teams facing goaltending uncertainties, such as the Montreal Canadiens, Edmonton Oilers, and Vegas Golden Knights. However, navigating his no-trade list and substantial salary will be crucial for any interested party. The Oilers, for example, have historically sought veteran goaltending upgrades, as evidenced by their acquisition of Jack Campbell, though that deal didn’t pan out as expected.
The Broader Trend: Selling at the Deadline
The Panthers’ decision reflects a growing trend in the NHL: teams acknowledging their playoff chances and opting to capitalize on expiring contracts. This approach allows them to acquire draft picks and prospects, building a foundation for future success. The Chicago Blackhawks successfully utilized this strategy in recent years, accumulating valuable assets by trading away veteran players.
FAQ
Will Sergei Bobrovsky definitely be traded?
Not necessarily. The Panthers are listening to offers, but Bobrovsky has a 16-team no-trade list, and a deal isn’t guaranteed.
What is AJ Greer’s contract situation?
Greer is in the final season of a two-year contract with a $850,000 cap hit.
Why are the Panthers selling at the deadline?
They are 10 points out of a playoff spot and have lost three consecutive games, leading them to explore options for pending free agents.
Pro Tip: Retain an eye on teams with cap space and a clear need for goaltending or forward depth. These teams are most likely to emerge as potential trade partners for the Panthers.
Stay tuned to 247sports.new for the latest updates on the NHL trade deadline and the Panthers’ evolving situation.
Aim for more NHL trade coverage? Explore our trade deadline hub!