The Florida Panthers are having a strong season and are looking to make a deep playoff run. Especially after getting pushed out of the playoffs rather quickly a year ago, the Panthers are ready to establish their presence in the playoffs.
To achieve this goal, they may need to make some moves before the NHL trade deadline. The team's real glaring weakness is down the middle of the ice, and a few upgrades at center could push the Panthers into contender territory.
Here are three players that the Florida Panthers should consider trading for:
#1 JT Miller
The Florida Panthers are having a successful season, but could benefit from a versatile forward like JT Miller. He can play both center and wing, making him a valuable asset for any team.
The Panthers already have a strong center group, but could use more depth on the wing. Miller is a skilled player who can score and create opportunities for his teammates, which would be a welcome addition to the Panthers' offense.
The issue is the contract. The Canucks extended Miller all the way to 2030, but with the Panthers looking to be in contention for a good chunk of those years, it might be a good trade-off.
A trade for Miller would improve the Panthers' chances of making a deep playoff run this season.
#2 Max Domi
The Florida Panthers could benefit from adding depth to their forward group, and Max Domi of the Chicago Blackhawks could be a good fit. He is a skilled player who gives the Panthers versatility in their lineup, has proven himself to be a capable scorer and playmaker, and would add another dimension to the Panthers' offense.
Domi has a reasonable contract that expires at the end of the season at a manageable cap hit, making him an affordable addition to the team.
Additionally, he brings a level of grit and toughness that could help the Florida Panthers in the playoffs. A trade for Domi could bolster the team's chances of making a deep postseason run.
#3 Nick Bonino
The Florida Panthers are one of the last teams in the faceoff percentage, and Nick Bonino is essentially a faceoff specialist. Bonino is a veteran center who brings experience and leadership to any team he plays for and is a reliable two-way player who can contribute offensively while also being responsible defensively.
Bonino has a track record of success in the playoffs, having won two Stanley Cups during his career. Adding him to the Florida Panthers' lineup would provide them with depth and experience at the center position, improving their chances of making a deep postseason run.