Report: Florida Panthers Focusing on Two Lineup Spots for Trade Upgrades

The Florida Panthers don't have a lot of wiggle room under the cap to make any big moves at the trade deadline, with well under $1 million available to them. But that doesn't mean they aren't looking to improve the roster for the stretch drive.

Insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period says the team is focusing on two lineup spots in particular for trade upgrades: A third-pairing defenseman and a bottom-six forward.

But with their cap crunch, they'll have to get creative.

(GM Bill Zito) is looking around, seeing what kind of bargain type deals that can work and fit for his group. He's done it in the past. He's looking for special deals. Cap-friendly deals.

With two key members of their Stanley Cup-winning blueline gone this season (Brandon Montour and Oliver Ekman-Larsson both leaving in free agency), it should be no surprise to learn that a defender to add some depth on the backline will be one of their primary goals at the deadline.

"It does sound like the D-core is something they're going to look to prioritize," added Pagnotta.

As noted by fellow insider Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, the Panthers have surrendered the most goals of any of the top six teams in either conference this season.

As for forward depth, the Panthers are already getting a career season out of third-liner Jesper Boqvist, who has 8 points in his last 10 games, and with 11 total goals and 19 points, has already set a personal best in goals and is on pace to blow away his best previous points mark of 23.

But one more helper for the bottom six will be on their radar as well.

The Panthers are currently 2nd in the Atlantic Division with 57 points, three back of the 1st place Toronto Maple Leafs.