In a significant move to bolster their roster, the Florida Panthers have secured center Anton Lundell with a six-year, $30 million contract. The 22-year-old Finnish player, previously a restricted free agent, now has a solid stake in the Panthers' future as they look to build on their recent success.
Lundell’s Rising Star
Lundell has been a noteworthy presence since being drafted No. 12 overall by Florida in 2020. Over the course of three seasons with the team, he has demonstrated his prowess on the ice, scoring 43 goals and tallying 69 assists in 216 games. Last season alone saw Lundell find the back of the net 13 times and contribute 22 assists over 78 regular-season games. His playoff performance was equally impressive, racking up 17 points in 24 games and making a critical assist on Carter Verhaeghe’s opening goal in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final.
Commitment to Improvement
Panthers president of hockey operations and general manager Bill Zito praised Lundell's dedication and evolution as a player. "Anton has matured into a dependable multirole center for our club, who seized his opportunity from his first day in North America. His commitment to improvement and cerebral approach to the game earned him the profound respect of his teammates and coaches, and we are excited to see him continue to grow and succeed with the Panthers," Zito said. This vote of confidence reflects the organization’s belief in Lundell’s ability to grow into an even more formidable force on the ice.
The Championship Season
The contract extension comes on the heels of the Panthers' historic season, culminating in their first franchise title with a 2-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in the Stanley Cup Final. Lundell’s role in the championship run underscores his value, and the management’s decision to lock him in for the long term is a testament to his contributions and potential.
Future Prospects
Lundell’s new deal, which includes a $5 million cap hit annually, aligns with the Panthers’ broader strategy of securing their key talents. Other prominent players like captain Aleksander Barkov, Matthew Tkachuk, and Gustav Forsling are under contracts that extend at least through the 2029-30 season. The Panthers are set to return all eight of their leading scorers from the past season, suggesting that the team’s competitive window remains wide open.
As the Panthers look ahead, the pieces are in place for sustained success. With Lundell and his teammates committed and under contract, the team is poised to build on its recent accomplishments and strive for even greater heights in the seasons to come.