The Florida Panthers have fallen sharply in the Eastern Conference standings after a heavy 5-1 defeat to the New Jersey Devils, plunging them to 14th place and 10 points behind a playoff spot. With their postseason chances now at roughly 0.5%, the organization is exploring the possibility of trading pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs), notably including depth forward A.J. Greer, signaling an openness to rental deals ahead of the NHL trade deadline. This decision follows the team’s injury-ravaged season and disappointing performance despite entering the season as back-to-back Stanley Cup champions.
Veteran Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky Among the Potential Trade Candidates
Alongside Greer, other UFAs on the Panthers’ roster include goaltenders Sergei Bobrovsky and Daniil Tarasov, defenseman Jeff Petry, and forward Tomáš Nosek. Of these, only Greer and Bobrovsky have been specifically highlighted as likely trade candidates. Bobrovsky, a two-time Vezina Trophy winner and integral to Florida’s championship runs, has struggled throughout the season, posting some of the poorest statistics among starting goaltenders. Over 42 starts, he has a goals-against average of 3.13, a save percentage of .873, and ranks near the bottom in goals saved above expected, which has affected the team’s overall success.
Challenges in Extending Bobrovsky’s Contract Amid Poor Performance
Reports indicate a growing divide between Bobrovsky and the Panthers in extension negotiations. Given the team’s poor playoff prospects and Bobrovsky’s career-worst form at age 37, Florida appears ready to consider moving him this season for any return they can secure. His continued role as the team’s primary goaltender despite underperformance highlights the difficult decisions facing the franchise as they weigh loyalty against rebuilding from a challenging season.
Trade Market Outlook for Goaltenders and Other Players
The potential for acquiring a significant package in exchange for Bobrovsky is uncertain, as the market for starting goaltenders remains limited. With other struggling netminders like Jordan Binnington of the St. Louis Blues also available, competition among sellers may reduce demand. Emily Kaplan of ESPN noted,
“many people I talk to around the league are skeptical that Bobrovsky would be traded, even as the Panthers fall out of the playoff race,”
highlighting a lack of serious interest at this time.
Greer Seen as a More Likely Candidate for a Deadline Move
A.J. Greer could be a more realistic trade option given his profile as a fourth-line forward with increased ice time due to injuries on the Panthers’ roster. At 29 years old, Greer has responded with a career-best performance this season, scoring 11 goals and accumulating 22 points in 61 games, along with a strong physical presence evidenced by 159 hits. His elevated production and typical role as trade deadline rental fodder position him as a probable target for teams seeking depth players.
Potential Returns and Player Values in Trade Discussions
Comparisons to recent trades, such as Nashville acquiring a second-round pick for Michael McCarron—a player with less offensive output but valuable faceoff skills—suggest Florida might command a similar mid-round draft pick for Greer. Meanwhile, Tomáš Nosek, returning this season from long-term injured reserve after knee surgery, is expected to bring more limited trade value, possibly attracting only late-round selection offers. Jeff Petry’s struggles this year, including a -10 rating and just eight assists, may still draw interest due to his experience as a right-shot defenseman with over 1,000 NHL games played.
Backup Goaltender Daniil Tarasov’s Future and Role
Moving backup goaltender Daniil Tarasov seems less likely, as the Panthers may look to extend his contract and potentially make him their starting goalie if Bobrovsky departs. Tarasov’s individual stats this season, such as a .903 save percentage, lead the group among goalies with more than ten games played, making him a valuable asset in a weak free-agent class of netminders. His retention reflects the Panthers’ interest in stability between the pipes during a transitional phase.
Implications of These Moves for the Panthers’ Upcoming Seasons
As the Panthers confront a disappointing campaign prematurely ending their Stanley Cup aspirations, their openness to trading A.J. Greer and other soon-to-be free agents marks a shift toward rebuilding or retooling their roster. Acquiring draft picks or younger assets in exchange for veteran players might provide flexibility for future roster construction. Furthermore, the team’s handling of goaltender contracts signals a potential shift in their defensive strategy moving forward. The trade decisions made before the deadline will likely shape the Panthers’ competitiveness and cap management in the seasons ahead.
The Panthers lost again last night and my understanding is they've made the decision to be sellers as far as listening on pending UFAs, which most notably include the likes of AJ. Greer and Sergei Bobrovsky.
Bobrovsky has a 16-team no-trade list. Doesn't mean he will be dealt…— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) March 4, 2026
