In recent years, the Florida Panthers have seen significant success thanks to several defensemen who have truly flourished while playing for the team. Brandon Montour revitalized his career in South Florida before securing a lucrative contract with the Seattle Kraken after three productive seasons and playoffs. Radko Gudas, who took a pay cut to join Florida at age 31 in 2020, later earned the highest average annual value (AAV) of his career with Anaheim three years on. Oliver Ekman-Larsson signed with the Panthers in summer 2023 after two difficult years in Vancouver and bounced back strongly, landing a four-year, $14 million contract with Toronto at age 32.
The latest addition to Florida’s defense, 37-year-old veteran Jeff Petry, presents a slightly different story. Nearing the end of his career, Petry was motivated by a strong desire to compete in the Stanley Cup playoffs again, especially after coming close with Montreal but losing in the finals. He also valued the track record of success the Panthers have built with new defensemen and felt confident he could integrate well into their system.
Petry emphasized his appreciation for Florida’s welcoming and supportive environment, which fosters players being themselves rather than forcing them to change their style. Known for his smooth skating, high hockey IQ, size, strength, and good mobility, Petry appears well-suited to thrive within the Panthers’ physically and mentally demanding system. A phone call from Florida, combined with the re-signing of key players like Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand, made his decision clear and enthusiastic.
The Panthers continue to build a formidable Stanley Cup roster with strategic moves leading into the new season, solidifying their status as a top contender in the league.
Fan Take: This signing underscores the Panthers’ proven ability to rejuvenate talented defensemen and fortify their lineup with experienced, high-impact players like Jeff Petry. For hockey fans, it signals Florida’s serious commitment to contending for the Stanley Cup and elevates the competitive excitement surrounding the sport in the coming season.
