Insider On Panthers' Star Player: "We May Be Watching His Final Shifts In Florida"

Wednesday, June 05, 2024

As the Florida Panthers make their charge into the Stanley Cup Finals for a second straight year, the spotlight not only highlights their pursuit of the Stanley Cup but also casts a shadow over the future of defenseman Brandon Montour.

With a cap hit of $3.5 million that is likely to double given his impressive performances, Montour's tenure with the Panthers hangs in the balance.

The past season, the 30-year-old recorded eight goals, 33 total points, a +1 plus/minus rating, 67 blocked shots, and 104 hits across 66 games played.

General Manager Bill Zito faces a pivotal offseason decision, as Montour's escalating market value and the team's salary cap constraints may force a tough choice.

Prioritizing other core players, such as Gustav Forsling, for financial flexibility and strategic fit, Zito's maneuvers suggest we may be witnessing Montour's final games in a Panthers uniform, according to Luke Fox of Sportsnet.

Montour, known for his grit and setting franchise records as a right-shot defenseman, seems undeterred by the looming contract discussions, focusing instead on the immediate goal of playoff success.

"I've played enough in this league to know the contract is going to be there, no matter what," Montour stated, putting his team's postseason ambitions over personal concerns.

Over his four seasons with Florida, Montour amassed 37 goals, 147 total points, a +33 plus/minus rating, 234 blocked shots, and 279 hits across 239 games played. He was an All-Star and finished 12th in Norris Trophy voting in the 2022-23 season.

Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

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