By Toby Rice
The Florida Panthers jumped into the UFA pool and picked up three big pieces this offseason. Surprising to many, the Panthers signed Brayden Schenn, Phillip Larsen, and Antti Niemi. Niemi role coming in is a quality backup, but both Schenn and Larsen signed team-friendly deals in order to come to Florida and play significant minutes. Brayden Schenn has played most games centering the first line, and Philip Larsen is on the team's top pairing back on D.
The moves are paying off, and the value is incredible. Brayden Schenn is leading the Florida Panthers with 12 points, including 2 goals and 10 assists. He's been the most consistent player, and his veteran presence is helping young forwards like Dylan Guenther, who is off to a great start with 4 goals and 7 assists. The production from Schenn is great news for the Panthers, and given his contract, his potential value can only go up. Schenn signed a team-friendly $5 million contract for three years. The veteran, now in his 19th professional season, came to Florida to win a cup.
"His mentality is great," said the team's coaching staff. "We knew when he came in on a good deal, he was here to be a part of something special. We have the youth, and he comes in as one of the leaders of this team. We're excited to see how this team comes together as the season goes on. We have high hopes for a playoff run."
The Panthers will play at home tonight against the LA Kings. Antti Niemi is slated to get his first start of the season.
8/4/2025 - 268 words
