Panthers Sign 6-foot-8 Goaltender to 2-Year Deal

One day after watching 6'7" Ivan Fedotov make his debut, tying for the tallest goaltender in NHL history, the Florida Panthers are trying to go one better, signing 6'8" free agent goalie Cooper Black to a two-year ELC.

Signed ✍️

We have agreed to terms with goaltender Cooper Black on a two-year, entry-level contract commencing in the 2024-25 season!

📝 » https://t.co/LqI6p6Qsnh pic.twitter.com/vtcFctQPet

— x - Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) April 2, 2024

His two-year entry-level contract carries an $855,000 AAV and a signing bonus of $95,000, with a cap hit of $950,000. His minor-league salary will be $80,000. He'll be an RFA when the contract expires in 2026.

Black posted a .910 save percentage, 2.58 goals against average and two shutouts for Dartmouth this season in the NCAA, and is a finalist for the Ken Dryden ECAC Goaltender of the Year Award. Last year, he was named to the ECAC All-Rookie Team.

“Cooper is a talented young goaltender whose rare combination of size and athletic ability have allowed him to succeed in the college ranks,” said Panthers GM Bill Zito. “We are looking forward to his further development within our organization.” 

At 6'8", 240 pounds, if he is to make it all the way to the NHL, he would become the tallest backstop in league history. 

Photo: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports