The Florida Panthers have made a splash in free agency, adding two key pieces to their forward group by signing high-profile winger Cordell Routley and playmaking center Jooa Keränen.

Routley is coming off a low-key good season in which he tallied 15 goals and 47 points in just 44 games. Known for his elite hockey sense, silky hands, and ability to drive play in the offensive zone, Routley is expected to make an immediate impact in the top six. If he can stay healthy, his blend of scoring touch and vision gives the Panthers a dynamic new weapon up front.

Joining him is Keränen, a reliable two-way center who quietly put together a solid 82-game campaign last season with 8 goals and 49 points. While not as flashy, Keränen’s consistency, faceoff prowess, and smart distribution make him a valuable depth addition. His ability to anchor a third line or provide a spark on the second power-play unit adds much-needed flexibility to the roster.

With Routley’s offensive firepower and Keränen’s steady presence, the Panthers are poised to ice a more dangerous and balanced forward group heading into the 2025-26 season.

After making a big trade to bring in Artem Alexandrov during the offseason, the Panthers were buzzing as they headed into preseason. Unfortunately, their regular season started off a bit shaky, with a 1-3 record. But the team quickly found their rhythm, going on an impressive five-game winning streak, thanks in large part to rookie goaltender Ryan Vrdoljak. He’s been nothing short of phenomenal, staying undefeated this season with four wins and one shutout, while also leading the league in save percentage and goals against average. Another exciting rookie making waves is 25-year-old Artsyom Dashuk, who’s been a scoring machine, leading the team with six goals and seven points in just nine games. The team aims to extend their winning streak against their rival, the Tampa Bay Lightning, promising an intense battle on the ice.