Back-to-back championships are never an easy feat, but being able to repeat takes a lot of work in the offseason as well. That’s the current focus for the Florida Panthers as they now plan their signings well to keep their best stars together and locked in for yet another stunning finish in the coming campaigns.

For starters, Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett, and Aaron Ekblad are all set to be unrestricted free agents this offseason, and the team hopes to keep them all together in the squad heading into its attempt at a third straight title. Who knows, maybe they could actually go for it and make history in the Stanley Cup once more.

Now that the offseason is in full swing, fans may even expect to see more from the Panthers to keep its top stars, and hopefully add a few key pieces who could increase their chances as well. No matter what the Panthers will work on this offseason, it begins by signing the trio of Marchand, Bennett, and Ekblad to ensure the core stays together.

Why Should the Panthers Extend Deals to these Players?

Let’s get it straight, Marchand scored 20 points, Bennett had 22, and Ekblad has been a superior two-way performer for a defenseman. Each of these players has become an integral part of Florida’s flourishing performances, and they sure deserve the praise they are getting – as well as the raise they will get for their impact.

“I know you're going to have a different roster each and every year, but hopefully, the core of guys, we can just continue building with that," Tkachuk said. “With that being said, we've got some unbelievable players that are up for contracts that I hope they get every single cent they can because that’s what you want for your best friends and players around the League.”

Tkachuk’s comments reflect the strong chemistry and culture Florida has built — an intangible asset just as valuable as cap space. And that chemistry could help in negotiations, as veterans like Marchand may prioritize winning over squeezing every dollar from the market.

Florida will need to be creative in retaining its key players without compromising long-term flexibility. Rumors suggest the team is considering moving a few depth contracts to clear space, potentially opening room for new acquisitions or bigger deals for their core.

Shot at Another Run?

With two straight titles under their belt, Florida's front office, led by General Manager Bill Zito, is facing a crucial crossroads — but one that also offers immense opportunity. If they can retain these core players while finding value in depth signings, the Panthers could realistically chase a third straight Stanley Cup. Only a handful of teams in NHL history have accomplished a three-peat, most recently the New York Islanders in the early 1980s.

The players know what's at stake — and they know who they want beside them on that journey.

Beyond keeping Marchand, Bennett, and Ekblad, the Panthers could also be active in free agency. With solid goaltending already in place, the team may look to bolster its bottom-six forwards or add a veteran defenseman as insurance. But make no mistake — their success begins with bringing their stars back.

The NHL’s offseason is full of surprises, but one thing is certain: Florida isn’t satisfied with just two championships. They’ve got their eyes set on more, and keeping their winning core together is the first, most important step.