The Florida Panthers have secured a key piece of their roster as they continue to build on last season's success. The team has signed 22-year-old center Anton Lundell to a six-year, $30 million contract. Lundell, who was a restricted free agent, will now stay with the Panthers until at least the 2029-30 season.
Lundell, a native of Finland, has shown tremendous growth since being drafted No. 12 overall in the 2020 NHL Draft. Over three seasons in Florida, he has scored 43 goals and added 69 assists in 216 games, demonstrating his capability as a dependable multirole center. Lundell's new contract comes with a cap hit of $5 million annually, signifying the organization's confidence in his continued development.
Rising Star
Last season, Lundell tallied 13 goals and 22 assists over 78 regular-season games. His contributions were crucial in the playoffs as well, where he accumulated 17 points in 24 games. In a standout moment, Lundell assisted on Carter Verhaeghe's opening goal in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, a moment that will be etched in the memories of Panthers' fans, as it helped secure the franchise’s first title with a 2-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers.
Bill Zito, Panthers president of hockey operations and general manager, praised Lundell's development and dedication. "Anton has matured into a dependable multirole center for our club, who seized his opportunity from his first day in North America. His commitment to improvement and cerebral approach to the game earned him the profound respect of his teammates and coaches, and we are excited to see him continue to grow and succeed with the Panthers," said Zito.
Core Stability
The signing of Lundell is part of a broader strategy by the Panthers to maintain a strong core group of players. With key players like captain Aleksander Barkov, Matthew Tkachuk, and Gustav Forsling all secured under contracts running at least through the 2029-30 season, the Panthers are positioned to remain competitive in the years to come.
Additionally, the Panthers are set to return all eight of their leading scorers from the past season, ensuring continuity and chemistry among the team's top performers. This strategic stability was a cornerstone of their successful run to the Stanley Cup last season, and management is keen on maintaining this solid foundation.
For Lundell, the security of a long-term deal and the vote of confidence from the organization should provide a strong platform to build upon. At just 22 years old, he has shown promise and poise beyond his years, a testament to his hard work and the supportive environment in Florida.
Looking Forward
As Lundell continues to develop, the Panthers will be watching closely to see how he capitalizes on this opportunity. His versatility and intelligence on the ice make him a valuable asset, capable of contributing in various scenarios and positions. With his new contract, Lundell is poised to become an even more integral part of the team's success, both in the immediate future and for years to come.
The Panthers’ investment in Lundell reflects a broader trend in the NHL of locking down young talent early to maintain a competitive edge. As the Panthers gear up for another promising season, fans can look forward to watching Lundell's journey unfold, confident that the team has made a wise decision in securing his talents long-term.