Panthers Rumors: Florida to Trade for Max Pacioretty

The Florida Panthers have already started to load up their offense for a Stanley Cup Playoff run, acquiring Vladimir Tarasenko from the Ottawa Senators. Now it sounds like there's another reinforcement on the way.

Rumor has the Panthers and Washington Capitals working on a deal that includes Max Pacioretty heading to the Sunshine state. Pacioretty has battled some injury troubles the last couple of seasons and of late, has been healthy and producing at a very efficient clip.

The veteran winger is owed $2 million against the cap this season and holds a full no-movement clause. It's believed this preference is either Florida, Tampa Bay or Vegas. Pacioretty has scored 15 points in 25 games this season with the Caps and has a decorated resume of playoff success, posting 49 points in 74 career postseason games.

The Caps are expected to be one of the busier teams these next couple of days as they look to throw in the towel on this season and sell off multiple assets including Pacioretty, Edmundson, and Nic Dowd.

Here's the latest on the Pacioretty market:

Max Pacioretty controls his fate with a full NMC. It sounds like a couple teams in the East are interested in adding him. I had heard Florida had interest before the Tarasenko add, not sure if they're still in the hunt.
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) March 7, 2024

LeBrun on Insider Trading says Max Pacioretty has a full NMC, so he say as to where he goes. He would like to stay East and LeBrun wonders about the Florida Panthers as a fit for him.
— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) March 5, 2024

Max Pacioretty last 5 games! #Patch https://t.co/7IpHovtWxx pic.twitter.com/KZMhWAuHir
— Allan Walsh🏒 (@walsha) March 2, 2024

I’m hearing Max Pacioretty was brought up as well. Pacioretty, 35, carries a cap hit of $2m, NMC and $4m AAV due to performance bonuses. Has 3G-12A-15PTS in 25GP this season. Not sure talks were anything serious, but Boston is at least looking for depth forwards too. #NHLBruins https://t.co/kgxnbJic8L
— Bruins Network (@BruinsNetwork) March 7, 2024

Photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports