With the deadline to submit protected lists fast approaching, one team feeling the crunch appears to be the Florida Panthers. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports (Twitter link) that forward Jonathan Marchessault could be available.
The 26 year is coming off a career season with the Panthers, scoring 30 goals and 21 assists in 75 games; his goal total led all Florida players. For perspective, he had just eight goals and 11 helpers in 49 games prior to this year.
He also has a very affordable contract as 2017-18 represents the final season of a two year, $1.5MM deal signed last offseason. While many teams will be tight to the cap, a $750K cap hit can be worked into any team.
The fact that Marchessault’s name is out there suggests that Florida is considering protecting eight skaters which would allow them to lock in four of their defenders including Keith Yandle and his no-move clause. Moving Marchessault would also allow them to cash in while his value is at its peak but would undoubtedly open up a hole that would need to be filled either via free agency or a trade after the Expansion Draft.