Florida Panthers depth chart: How does two-time Stanley Cup champs lines look after major UFA re-sign haul of Brad Marchand, others

On Monday, the Florida Panthers solidified their status as Stanley Cup contenders by signing veteran forward Brad Marchand to a six-year, $31.5 million extension with an average annual value (AAV) of $5.25 million.

The move bolstered Florida's already formidable roster as the Panthers aim for a historic three-peat after back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2024 and 2025.

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With Marchand joining recent extensions for Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad, Florida’s depth chart is a blend of star power and playoff grit.

Brad Marchand bolsters Florida Panthers' forward depth

The Panthers, fresh off their 2024 and 2025 Stanley Cup victories, are leaving nothing to chance. Marchand proved his playoff mettle in his first season with the Cats, accumulating 20 points through ten goals in 23 games, including six goals in the Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers.

His agitating style, elite playmaking, and two-way prowess make him a perfect fit for Florida’s third line alongside Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen, forming a trio that can shut down opponents while contributing offensively.

The Panthers’ forward group is now among the NHL’s elite. The top line of Aleksander Barkov, Sam Reinhart, and Carter Verhaeghe combines for over 200 points annually, with Reinhart’s 50+ goals and Barkov’s Selke-caliber defense setting the stage.

The second line, featuring Matthew Tkachuk, Sam Bennett (signed to an eight-year, $8M AAV deal), and prospect Mackie Samoskevich, brings physicality with emerging skill.

The fourth line of Evan Rodrigues, Nico Sturm, and a depth player like Adam Boqvist or Jesper Boqvist offers versatility. Brad Marchand’s addition ensures Florida has four lines capable of winning playoff battles, giving coach Paul Maurice unmatched flexibility.

Their Panthers' forward line rivals the best in the NHL, their top-four defense can match any contender, and Sergei Bobrovsky provides elite goaltending. Marchand’s signing signals Florida’s intent to make history as the first team since the 1980s Islanders to win three straight Cups.

Also Read: Elliotte Friedman makes feelings known on Panthers re-signing all 3 big UFAs Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett & Aaron Ekblad

About the author

Abhishek is an NHL writer at Sportskeeda with over 2 years of sports reporting experience and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delhi. He became a fan of ice hockey after watching NHL fight videos on YouTube, which led to him professionally writing about the sport and his continued interest in all things hockey.

A fan of the Boston Bruins, Abhishek considers their incredible comeback win against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2013 playoffs as the most iconic moment in the NHL. His admiration for the six-time Stanley Cup winners also comes from the team’s storied history, distinctive black and gold uniform and their success in the sport. His all-time favorite NHL players are Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, for their ability to perform at the highest level consistently.

Abhishek ensures his reporting is fair and balanced by being well-researched in his details, which he expects to be relevant, up-to-date and in line with ethical standards. His specialties are doing detailed match analysis and covering fan reactions.

Abhishek enjoys music, traveling and going on walks with his three German Shepherds in his free time, along with learning about horticulture.

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Edited by Abhishek Dilta