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Aaron Ekblad Emerges as Top Target for Western Team Eyeing Big Moves

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Jack Sutherland | Last updated Jun 29, 2025 5:50 PM ET

Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad, who is also a pending UFA, is emerging as a top trade target for a surprising team in the Western Conference looking to make another big move.

The Florida Panthers are continuing the celebration of their 2nd straight Stanley Cup win, but they're not likely going to be able to bring back all of their players who made it possible.

The good news for the Panthers is that Conn Smythe Trophy winner Sam Bennett has been re-signed to an 8-year contract extension, and they may also be able to re-sign Brad Marchand.

But one player who appears headed to the open market is longtime Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad, who has been with the team since they took him with the 1st overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft.

While a number of clubs have been linked to Ekblad, there are also reports emerging that he could find himself eventually with the Utah Mammoth.

Darren Dreger: Re Aaron Ekblad: Would Toronto be a fit?...I keep hearing Utah - Barn Burner

Analyst Pierre LeBrun has also suggested the Mammoth as a potential fit for Ekblad in free agency.

The Mammoth have already picked up a significant acquisition, acquiring JJ Peterka from the Buffalo Sabres in a highly-publicized trade that finally brought an end to that saga in Western New York.

With a potential acquisition of Ekblad on the blue line along with the addition of Peterka up front, it would mean the Mammoth are serious about playing postseason hockey next spring.

Ekblad has played his entire NHL career with the Panthers and has now helped them win consecutive Stanley Cups. He has 380 points (118G, 262A) in 732 career games.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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