Ekblad who has been with the Panthers since he was drafted in 2014 is on his final year of his deal that is worth $7.5 million AAV. General manager Bill Zito will be faced with a major challenge as he has fourteen players signed under contract and only $19.5 million in cap space. Moving a player like Ekblad would certainly free up plenty of cash to help sign other unrestricted free agents such as Sam Reinhart, Brandon Montour or Anton Lundell.
Many teams will be inquiring for his services as defenseman are a premium especially of his talent. Being a right shot defenseman and having a height of 6 foot four 215 lbs will certainly get the attention of teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Utah hockey team, Dallas Stars and the Chicago Blackhawks.
