NHL Free Agency: Insider Links Central Division Team To Aaron Ekblad

Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad reacts during 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs game.

As contract talks between the Florida Panthers and defenseman Aaron Ekblad drag on, the Nashville Predators could be quietly preparing to pounce.

According to multiple insiders, including Elliotte Friedman and The Fourth Period, Nashville is one of several teams ready to make a serious offer if Ekblad hits the open market on July 1. With cap space, a strong defensive structure, and a need for top-pair talent, the Predators are considered a “logical fit” for the veteran blueliner.

That being said, the Predators did just agree to a trade for former Vegas Golden Knights' defenseman Nicolas Hague, and signed him to a 4-year, $5.5M contract. That leaves them still with over $13M in cap space.

Predators Emerging as Serious Suitor for Aaron Ekblad

Ekblad, 29, is coming off back-to-back Stanley Cup championships and just completed an eight-year, $60 million contract. Despite expressing a desire to stay in Florida, cap constraints and the Panthers' recent extension of Sam Bennett for $64 million have left little room to lock up both Ekblad and forward Brad Marchand. Panthers GM Bill Zito indicated that deals could still be reached before July 1, but also admitted the team has "Plan B and C" in case talks fall apart.

I’ve already confirmed, #TimeToHunt Aaron Ekblad is going to be a free agent July 1st. Hes expected to have several teams interested, I know that#GoKingsGo, Anaheim Ducks,and #TusksUp are all prepared to pursue him heavily. #NHLFreeAgency https://t.co/8E9rD4orbE
— Roger Hicks NHL Insider (@RogerHicksNHL) June 30, 2025

Nashville Offers Ekblad Stability, Fit, and Contention

Friedman noted that if things “don’t work out between Florida and Ekblad,” Nashville is “not too far from there,” both geographically and competitively. The Predators are coming off a promising season and are looking to reinforce their blue line behind Roman Josi. With their core maturing and a strong goaltending tandem, Ekblad’s could be exactly what GM Barry Trotz is seeking.

Bill Zito on potentially re-signing Aaron Ekblad and Brad Marchand:

"We have a Plan B and a Plan C, but my preference, and maybe I'm hoping, is that there's enough for guys to want to stay, to be part of this, be treated fairly and be happy, and that's the most important thing." pic.twitter.com/wt0usyZTnw
— David Dwork (@DavidDwork) June 29, 2025

The Preds aren’t alone in their interest, other rumored suitors include the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, San Jose Sharks, New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, and Columbus Blue Jackets. But Nashville stands out as a playoff-ready team with financial flexibility and a strong system to support Ekblad’s two-way style. Signing him would also send a message that the team is fully committed to making a run in 2025–26.

Clock Ticking on Panthers’ Window to Re-Sign Ekblad

Time is quickly running out for Florida to retain Ekblad. With Marchand also awaiting a new deal and only around $11 million in cap space, something may have to give. If the Panthers can’t keep both, Nashville could land one of the most impactful defensemen to hit free agency in years.

Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images