The Case for the Panthers to Sign Michael Bunting

Florida Panthers General Manager Bill Zito announced on September 16th that Brad Marchand will miss the start of the season due to offseason surgery. This opens the door for the Panthers to seek short-term reinforcements, potentially finding a long-term solution in the process.

Michael Bunting, an unrestricted free agent, could be a cost-effective option. Having played for the Arizona Coyotes, Toronto Maple Leafs, Carolina Hurricanes, Pittsburgh Penguins, Nashville Predators, and Dallas Stars since 2018-19, his next stop might be South Florida.

Given the late stage of the offseason and the Panthers' proximity to the salary cap, Bunting presents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity on an inexpensive contract. He could sign a league-minimum, one-year deal, as he remains unsigned with training camp underway. While a professional tryout (PTO) is possible, there have been no official announcements.

2025-26 Season Stats

Last season, Bunting played 74 games for the Predators and Stars, scoring 14 goals (13 with Nashville in 61 games) and adding 19 assists. He recorded 20 penalty minutes and a minus-7 rating. While not his peak offensive performance, he provided solid depth, a role he would likely fill in Florida. His strongest offensive seasons occurred with the Maple Leafs, where he primarily played in the top six.

Career Playoff Stats

In 14 career playoff games, largely with Toronto, Bunting registered two goals and six points. He plays a physical postseason game, accumulating 19 penalty minutes and 26 hits. His playoff experience could make him a valuable depth addition. He would likely slot into the third or fourth line on the left wing, depending on Brad Marchand's availability.

Career Offensive Productions

Bunting has scored 20 or more goals twice, in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons with the Maple Leafs. He has also contributed 10 or more goals in four other seasons. He scored 14 goals in 2024-25 with the Penguins and 13 in 2023-24 with the Carolina Hurricanes. In his rookie 2020-21 season with the Arizona Coyotes, he netted 10 goals in 21 games.

Panthers and Bunting: A Stylistic Match

Bunting’s physical play and tenacious, "rat-style" approach, reminiscent of Marchand, make him a strong stylistic fit for the Panthers. He aligns with the organization's mindset as they pursue another Stanley Cup.

As a left winger, Bunting could fill Marchand's spot on the third line, potentially playing alongside Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen. His relentless attacking style and ability to get under opponents' skin, combined with his scoring touch, make him a solid injury replacement. He could even secure a permanent role once Marchand returns.

With limited cap space, the Panthers need affordable options to cover injuries like Marchand's. Bunting's playing style could mesh perfectly with the Panthers, offering him a potential long-term home after several seasons of changing teams. If he is willing to accept a salary significantly lower than his previous $4.5 million annual earnings, this could be an ideal arrangement for both Bunting and Florida.