The Florida Panthers have waived defenseman Tobias Bjornfot for assignment to their AHL affiliate, Charlotte, as reported by Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet. The team also waived goaltender Louis Domingue after signing him to a two-way contract earlier the same day. These moves are intended to clear roster space in anticipation of winger Jonah Gadjovich or defenseman Seth Jones returning from long-term injured reserve.
Bjornfot’s Role and Recent Performance with the Panthers
Tobias Bjornfot, initially claimed off waivers from the Vegas Golden Knights during the 2023-24 season, re-signed with the Panthers last summer on a two-way deal. He has frequently moved between the NHL and AHL, earning multiple recalls. After Seth Jones suffered an upper-body injury, Bjornfot was recalled in early January. Although he was a healthy scratch for several games, he eventually secured a starting spot as the Panthers’ third left defenseman over Donovan Sebrango and remained in the lineup for an extended period. Bjornfot missed some time in the previous month due to an undisclosed injury but has since returned.
Statistics Highlight Bjornfot’s Effectiveness in Limited Minutes
In the 11 games played this season, Bjornfot has proven to be a steady, low-profile option. The former first-round pick of the Los Angeles Kings recorded two goals, one assist, and maintained a plus-4 rating while averaging 11 minutes and 33 seconds of ice time per game. Known for his smooth skating and solid defensive play, Bjornfot logged eight hits and excelled in possession metrics, controlling 61.7% of even-strength shot attempts during his shifts.
Panthers’ Strategy to Retain Bjornfot Through Waivers
Florida aims to keep Bjornfot within the organization despite the waiver assignment. Given his modest NHL role in recent seasons, the Panthers expect that other teams may be reluctant to claim him and dedicate a roster spot. Bjornfot is due to become a restricted free agent this summer, which allows Florida to maintain first rights on any contract offers. It’s anticipated the Panthers might negotiate a new two-way contract for him, potentially with an increased salary above his current $450,000 base.
Bjornfot’s Value to the Panthers’ Defensive Depth
Over the past two seasons, Bjornfot has developed into a dependable presence in Charlotte’s top-four defensive group while offering reliable depth insurance for Florida’s NHL roster. Positioned as a depth defenseman, he serves as a trustworthy option around the eighth slot in the Panthers’ defensive lineup. The team’s decision to waive him signals a cautious but hopeful approach to managing roster flexibility as players return from injury.
“The smooth-skating rearguard had eight hits and posted great possession metrics in his sheltered minutes, controlling 61.7% of shot attempts at even strength.” – Elliotte Friedman, Sportsnet
“He’s been a great defensive conscience in Charlotte’s top four over the past two years and has shown to be a reliable insurance option in the #8 slot or so on their defensive depth chart.” – Elliotte Friedman, Sportsnet
Bjornfoot & Domingue (FLA) on waivers
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 4, 2026
