The Florida Panthers have a few more players that will be on expiring deals in 2023-24. To conclude the series that included deep dives on Sam Reinhart, Brandon Montour, Anthony Duclair and Gustav Forsling, here is a look at their situations.
Eetu Luostarinen, $1.5 million – Luostarinen continued his advancement towards becoming a multi-faceted middle six player in 2022-23. His absence from the Stanley Cup Final was noticeable. Eetu will be back in Sunrise next year, but look for an early extension from Zito and company similar to how the Panthers inked Ryan Lomberg two years ago and Josh Mahura this season.
Anton Lundell, $925,000 – Considered a promising youth of the franchise, Lundell turned a disappointing sophomore campaign into an encouraging development year with his play in the postseason. Lundell is poised to rebound to his rookie year form or better next season, but he’ll need some consistency in his position and linemates to make it happen. He won’t be traded and look for an early extension here too.
Josh Mahura, $925,000 – Already earning a one-year extension after being a waiver claim, Mahura and Radko Gudas developed a solid partnership as the third pairing in 2022-23. Mahura will likely see more competition this year for his sixth defenseman spot given Florida’s improved cap situation, but he earned Paul Maurice’s trust. He probably goes through the year without a contract and through the arbitration process next year. There is the off chance that he could be included in a trade if the Panthers upgrade significantly on the left side.
Ryan Lomberg, $800,000 – Lomberg continues to carve out an NHL role with his antagonism, speed, and physicality. Ideally, he’s on the fourth line next year, but he showed his value at times playing up the lineup when needed. I expect Ryan to go into the season without an extension, but Zito should be able to bring him back if he chooses and I imagine Lomberg would like to be back in Sunrise beyond next year.