Top 5 NHL free agents Florida Panthers must target in 2024 offseason ft. Patrick Kane

The Florida Panthers are on the brink of winning their first Stanley Cup title in franchise history. Since joining the NHL in 1993, the Panthers have reached the finals twice but have never been as close to winning it all as they are now. After years of building one of the top rosters in the NHL, the Panthers could finally seal the deal.

Unfortunately for the Florida Panthers, they could face the same difficulties that many title teams do. The club has a number of key players who are pending free agents, including Brandon Montour, Sam Reinhart, Vladimir Tarasenko, and Anton Lundell. It could be a difficult, yet interesting offseason for the Panthers.

A look at 5 free agents that the Florida Panthers should pursue this offseason

#1 - Brandon Montour

Brandon Montour has developed into one of the most underrated defensemen in the league. The 30-year-old showcased his offensive abilities in 2023, posting a career-high 73 points, becoming a key contributor for the Panthers since being acquired from the Buffalo Sabres. Keeping him should be something the team needs to pursue, however it may come at a cost.

#2 - Patrick Kane

If the Florida Panthers were looking to acquire another veteran goal-scorer in the vane of Vladimir Tarasenko, it could be Patrick Kane. Even though Kane is 35 years old, he has remained a consistent contributor, posting 20 goals for the Detroit Red Wings last season. The Panthers could likely add him for a reasonably affordable contract.

"I won't be shocked if Patrick Kane ended up with the Florida Panthers next season" - @andrewsheehy228

#3 - Tyson Barrie

With the potential departures of Brandon Montour, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and Dmitry Kulikov, the Panthers may need to look to the open market to address their blueline. Tyson Barrie is coming off a disappointing run with the Nashville Predators, which could help the Panthers. The team could add the offensive defenseman on a team-friendly deal and be a low-risk, high-reward signing.

#4 - Sam Reinhart

Whether the team decides to let Montour walk or not, Sam Reinhart is a must-sign for the Panthers. The talented forward is coming off the best season of his career, scoring 57 goals and 37 assists. Reinhart could command a massive contract this summer and keeping him might be the Panthers' number one priority.

"Sam Reinhart. Overtime hero" - @TheSabreReport

#5 - Daniel Sprong

Aside from Sam Reinhart and Brandon Montour, the core of the Panthers' lineup is under contract. That being said, the club will need to add some scoring depth if they are unable to re-sign Vladimir Tarasenko or Kyle Okposo, they could look to Daniel Sprong.

The 27-year-old is coming off a strong campaign for the Detroit Red Wings which saw him record 18 goals and 25 assists. He may not be the most attractive name in free agency however he could play an important depth role for the Florida Panthers next season.