General Manager of the Florida Panthers Dale Tallon gave his final remarks on the 2017-18 season stating that he wasn't satisfied with missing the playoffs but that the team has come a long way. After a very tumultuous couple seasons that saw a carousel of upper management and coaching staff, it's hard to blame the players for the slow start that led to their demise.
"We have to remember this and not let this happen again. But the second half our players came a long way but it wasn't quite good enough. We'll use this as a building block for next year and make sure this doesn't happen again," said Tallon.
After an off-season in 2017 that saw the team subtract top six forwards in Jonathan Marchessault and Riley Smith, this summer will be about additions to the top two lines. The back-end could use an upgrade as well, especially since it's unknown whether or not Keith Yandle can have another 50+ point season.
“My preference would probably be both, but it depends on what it is, and who it is, and when it is. I think our goals against has got to get better as well. I think it can improve. I guess defense, probably. I would like to address (forward and defense) needs possibly.” ~Dale Tallon, GM Florida Panthers
The only significant unrestricted free agent the Panthers have is Radim Vrbata. With his
$2.5 million cap hit coming off the books, there's approximately $66 million committed to 12 forwards, five defensemen and two goaltenders. Restricted free agents include centers
Jared McCann, and
Denis Malgin, along with defensemen
Alex Petrovic and
Mackenzie Weegar. None of their RFA's should be a challenge to get re-signed.
With regards to potential free agents, Toronto Maple Leafs forward James van Reimsdyk has been linked to the Panthers since the the trade deadline. After scoring 36 goals while averaging less than 15 minutes per game, he'll be due a sizable contract. Whether Florida wants to make van Reimsdyk the highest paid player on the team remains to be seen, and that's exactly the kind of return the league's 13th highest goal scorer would command.
Boston Bruins' forward Riley Nash would be an excellent, affordable addition to the Florida top nine, giving tons of flexibility since he can play center and the wing. Nash has shown a propensity to play higher in the lineup when necessary, taking over for Patrice Bergeron between Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak when injury occurred. Currently only making $900,000, Nash won't demand the same type of cap hit or term.
Defensively, Mike Green and John Carlson remain at the top of the list. Green's age and
health status remain too much of an obstacle to bet on him. Especially since Yandle is a similar type player. Carlson would be a fantastic fit at only 28 years of age and would have the opportunity to play with Aaron Ekblad or lead the second pairing.
Carlson will draw many suitors, but the Panthers can offer no state tax, amazing weather and a team that is on the rise. With a bolstering of the defense, this team would become overnight contenders.
Tomorrow we'll explore some potential trade partners, who the Panthers would use as trade bait and what they'd be looking for in return.
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