What happened: Florida acquired goaltender Akira Schmid from the Vegas Golden Knights for a 2028 third-round pick, filling one of two crease vacancies. Schmid, a 26-year-old restricted free agent, still needs a new contract in South Florida. General manager Bill Zito is not finished, with the team continuing to pursue a veteran starter through the trade market.
Why it matters: The Panthers have built around netminders who thrive behind their heavy, structured defensive game, and a proven starter would anchor that system. Florida's reported targets are New Jersey's Jacob Markstrom and Darcy Kuemper, both 36 and both fitting the organization's preference for size in goal. Landing either would require a trade package while keeping the books balanced under the cap.
By the numbers: Markstrom carries two years left at a $6 million AAV and a 20-team no-trade list. Kuemper is entering the final year of a deal worth a $5.25 million AAV with a 10-team no-trade list.
What to watch: Watch whether Florida moves on a veteran before the calendar turns, with free agency opening July 1 as an alternative route.