Florida Panthers Salary Cap: Key Numbers to Know
2023-24 Salary Cap Overview
The Florida Panthers are poised to make a strong push for the Stanley Cup in the 2023-24 season, and their salary cap situation plays a crucial role in their aspirations. With a projected salary cap ceiling of $83.5 million, the Panthers have some work to do to become cap-compliant. However, they have a few key roster moves that can help them do just that.
Key Roster Moves
One of the most important roster moves the Panthers can make is to re-sign pending restricted free agent Anton Lundell. The 21-year-old center is coming off a breakout season in which he scored 19 goals and added 35 assists in 82 games. He is projected to command a salary in the range of $7-8 million per season, which would be a significant raise from his current $925,000 cap hit. The Panthers also have a few other RFAs to re-sign, including Gustav Forsling and Eetu Luostarinen.
In addition to re-signing their own RFAs, the Panthers could also look to add some pieces through free agency. One potential target is forward David Perron, who is coming off a strong season with the Detroit Red Wings. Perron is a versatile player who can play both the wing and center, and he would provide the Panthers with some much-needed scoring depth. Another potential target is defenseman John Klingberg, who is coming off a down season with the Anaheim Ducks. Klingberg is a skilled offensive defenseman who could help the Panthers improve their power play.
Salary Cap Projections
The Panthers' current salary cap hit is $104.6 million, which is well above the projected cap ceiling of $83.5 million. However, the Panthers have a few players who are coming off the books at the end of the season, including Anthony Duclair, Mason Marchment, and Jean-Sebastien Giguere. These moves will free up some much-needed cap space, and the Panthers should be able to get under the cap with some minor roster tweaks.
The Panthers have a bright future, and their salary cap situation is a key part of that. With some smart roster moves, they can become a legitimate contender for the Stanley Cup in the 2023-24 season.
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