Panther's Aaron Ekblad Feels Another Stanley Cup Coming in Florida

Despite winning back-to-back Stanley Cups, the Florida Panthers are hungry for more, and defenceman Aaron Ekblad feels more success is well within reach.

Ekblad was on Good Morning America on Friday and was asked about the future of the Panthers, and what's to come in Florida. "We have won the Stanley Cup twice, and we still have a long window to win more," Ekblad said Friday on Good Morning America, according to NHL.com's George Richards. "Whether it is or isn't next year, it is just as likely the following year. And the year after that, and the year after that. It's really cool to be in this position." Could a three-peat be on deck for the Panthers?

We thought about winning it for a second straight year last year, too, so I am not going to think any differently this time around," Ekblad said. "We don't think that thinking or talking about winning the Cup again is jinxing anything. I am preparing for the marathon that is an NHL season and the playoffs. I am preparing for it like another season.

The last time a team three-peated in the NHL was back in the early 1980's when the New York Islanders achieved the feat. The Panthers have two down, and a roster in tact, and certainly are the heavy favorites to win heading into next season.

As for Ekblad, he re-signed with the team on an eight-year deal at just $6.1 million AAV. Yes, the no income-tax in Florida helps keep cap hits down, but it should be worth mentioning he left a ton of money on the table not hitting free agency. It shows his commitment to winning and his willingness to sacrifice a few million to make it happen. 

Ekblad scored 13 points in 19 playoff games last season for the Panthers and if they go on to three-peat, he's going to play a major role in their success. 

Photo credit:  Sam Navarro-Imagn Images