The Florida Panthers have made a significant move to bolster their goaltending corps, acquiring veteran netminder Jacob Markstrom from the New Jersey Devils. The trade, confirmed on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, also involved forwards Evan Rodrigues, Jesper Boqvist, and Ben Steeves heading to New Jersey, with the Panthers receiving minor-leaguer Angus Crookshank as well. This acquisition is seen as a clear indication that the Panthers are moving on from Sergei Bobrovsky, who is expected to test the free-agent market.
Markstrom, 31, brings a wealth of NHL experience to Florida, having played parts of four seasons with the Panthers earlier in his career after being drafted by them in the second round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. He was later traded to the Vancouver Canucks in 2014 as part of the deal that brought Roberto Luongo back to Florida. Markstrom has since played for the Calgary Flames and most recently the New Jersey Devils. Over his career, he has a 2.73 goals-against average and a.907 save percentage in 578 NHL games.
The Swedish goaltender is entering the first year of a two-year contract with a $6 million cap hit. This move comes shortly after the Panthers also acquired Akira Schmid from the Vegas Golden Knights, indicating a comprehensive effort to revamp their goaltending depth. Markstrom's return to Florida reunites him with an organization where his NHL journey began, adding an intriguing narrative to the Panthers' offseason moves as they aim to build on recent successes.
This trade marks a pivotal moment for the Panthers as they navigate the complexities of team roster construction and prepare for their upcoming campaign. The acquisition of Markstrom suggests a strategic vision aimed at solidifying their position and contending for future championships.
