Photo credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Sergei Bobrovsky is the unquestioned backbone for the Florida Panthers, but as a pending free agent and the Panthers outside the playoff picture, his future is in question.
Trade rumors swirled around the two-time Vezina Trophy winner heading into the Olympic break. Many assumed the defending champions would sell their pending unrestricted free agent.
Chris Johnston threw cold water on that narrative Thursday on TSN's OverDrive. He stated firmly that the star goaltender isn't currently available on the trade market, but stopped short of saying he would not be traded.
The Panthers own a 29-25-3 record and sit just outside the playoff picture. Every point matters right now if they want to defend their back-to-back Stanley Cup titles.
Bobrovsky currently holds a 21-17-1 record with a 3.13 goals-against average. He is a workhorse who gives his team a chance to win every single night.
Darren Dreger added another massive twist to the situation. He noted that a timely winning streak could dramatically shift the front office strategy.
If Florida climbs back into the Atlantic Division race, extension talks could kick into high gear. Management wants to lock up their elite netminder before he hits the open market.
A massive contract extension would entirely eliminate any trade deadline drama. Florida needs solid execution in front of the crease to string those required wins together.
Over his NHL career, Bobrovsky has proven he thrives under heavy pressure. He simply steps up when the lights are the brightest.
He boasts an .874 save percentage behind a heavily injured Panthers team this season. Despite the intense workload, his locker room presence remains an irreplaceable asset for this roster.
Florida secured a massive 5-1 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday night. The veteran made 28 saves and completely shut down their high-flying transition game.
Toronto was essentially held scoreless at even strength during that divisional matchup. That level of crisp passing and defensive buy-in is exactly what management wants to see.
The Panthers are clearly refusing to wave the white flag just yet. They firmly believe this core generates enough offensive output to secure a wild-card spot.
It is entirely up to the players to reward that front office loyalty. A few more dominant performances on this homestand will solidify their path forward.
Don't expect a blockbuster goalie trade out of Sunrise anytime soon. The primary goal is clearly keeping the band together for another deep playoff push.
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