The “Friday Four” is a collection of thoughts and information on several intriguing storylines from around the NHL world. This week`s edition includes:
- The Panthers are poised to build a dynasty.
- The risk-reward balance of short-term vs. long-term contracts.
- The Kings` curious moves on the blue line.
- Surprisingly high demand for Jeannot.
Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand, Florida Panthers
Doubt Bill Zito at your own risk.
Many believed it was impossible for the Panthers to sign all three of Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand, but the Florida general manager managed to retain the trio on long-term contracts. Zito even went so far as to give Marchand a six-year deal that will take him to age 43, not fearing how the final years of the agreement will look. He`ll address that problem when it arises, as Zito`s main focus right now is keeping together a team that has reached three straight Cup Finals and won back-to-back championships. This is no easy feat in the salary cap era.
Even with all the success the Panthers have already achieved, it`s too early to call them a dynasty just yet. The Tampa Bay Lightning also recently won back-to-back Cups and reached three straight Finals, Sidney Crosby led the Pittsburgh Penguins to two titles in as many years, and the Chicago Blackhawks won three championships over a six-year span. You could argue that the Panthers are on par with these teams, but they still have the advantage of time on their side. Each of those squads couldn`t escape the salary cap constraints and sustain their greatness any longer, whereas the Panthers are not only set up to contend for a third straight Cup but are also positioned to remain strong for a very long time.
Neville Woodall