The Florida Panthers are one win away from clinching a spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final. But regardless of how their season ends, some tough choices await. One of the biggest questions surrounds Aaron Ekblad, the team’s longtime blueliner, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
Ekblad has spent his entire NHL career with the Panthers since being drafted first overall in 2014. But with cap space tightening and his projected $7.68 million annual salary over six years potentially being too much for Florida, a departure feels increasingly likely.
That opens the door for teams in need of a veteran defenseman, and one iconic team might represent the best fit.
Aaron Ekblad Could Be A Fit For the Maple Leafs This Offseason
The Toronto Maple Leafs are once again left facing hard truths after another disappointing playoff run. Their latest postseason exit came at the hands of none other than the Panthers, who trounced them 6-1 in Game 7 of the second round. Toronto has now failed to move past that round in nine straight playoff appearances.
Changes are coming, and defense is a major area of concern. The addition of Ekblad could be a timely solution, according to ClutchPoints senior editor and NHL analyst Tristin McKinstry. His presence would bring top-four reliability, physicality, and playoff experience to a blue line that has lacked consistency when it matters most.
Great pressure from E-Rod to kick things off.
Ekblad with his 3rd goal of the playoffs. pic.twitter.com/0ZxzT1QCY8
— Jameson Olive (@JamesonCoop) May 21, 2025
Pairing Ekblad with someone like Morgan Rielly or bringing him in alongside former teammate Oliver Ekman-Larsson could provide both balance and familiarity. It’s not just a fit on paper, the Leafs are looking to spend big, with potential cap space of up to $21.9 million if free agents Mitch Marner and John Tavares sign elsewhere.
While analyst Matt Larkin called Ekblad a “luxury” addition, Toronto could be in a position to take that risk. The 29-year-old has been a cornerstone in Florida, but his recent PED suspension and injury history have clouded his future.
Still, his upside remains significant, especially for a Leafs squad desperate to make a deep playoff run.
Other Possible Ekblad Landing Spots
The Edmonton Oilers are another team to watch. They’re two wins away from a Stanley Cup Final appearance and could be interested in bolstering their defensive corps. Ekblad wouldn’t fully replace what Evan Bouchard brings, especially if the young star departs. But he would add valuable experience and toughness on the back end.
Then there’s the Detroit Red Wings, a team still clawing to get back into playoff contention after nearly a decade out. For them, Ekblad could provide the leadership and stability needed to guide a young core. His minutes, presence in the locker room, and championship pedigree could be the perfect ingredients to help move the rebuild forward.
Possible Red Flags Surrounding Ekblad
Still, no potential suitor can ignore the risks. Ekblad has dealt with a string of injuries over the past few seasons, missing large chunks of time due to ailments and suspensions. Since 2020-21, he hasn’t played more than 67 games in a regular season. The 20-game PED suspension this year only added to the uncertainty.
And yet, the numbers don’t lie. Ekblad ranks second in games played for Florida and leads in several advanced defensive metrics. He was also one of the team’s top performers during their 2024 championship run, showcasing resilience by playing through a broken foot and multiple shoulder injuries.
With NHL Free Agency opening July 1, teams like the Leafs, Oilers, and Red Wings must weigh the risk-reward factor that comes with signing Ekblad. A high-ceiling player with undeniable skill and grit, and a possible deeper floor than he’s shown, he could be the missing piece or a gamble that doesn’t pay off.
