Florida Panthers defenseman signs multiyear deal

This is giving him security through the 2025-26 NHL season and stabilizing the Panthers' depth on the back end.

Balinskis, 28, first broke into the NHL with Florida in 2023 after spending several seasons in Europe and has now translated that upside into another contract with the club.

His path from undrafted European pro to NHL roster regular is a feel-good storyline for Panther fans.

His new deal averages $850,000 per year, valued at $1.7 million across two seasons, a modest cap figure that gives Florida flexibility while keeping a promising defender under team control.

That AAV is a bargain for a player who can contribute both at even strength and with the puck moving out of his own zone.

Balinskis has worked into the rotation this season, recording a goal and two points in limited action for Florida while also shining offensively with the AHL's Charlotte Checkers before recent NHL recalls.

Balinskis stays with Florida Panthers

Coming from Latvia and making the jump to the NHL is never easy, yet Balinskis has steadily improved his game and earned this two-year commitment.

Fans have noticed his skating and puck skill blend well with Florida's breakout game and transition plays.

With that dependable left-shot defender secured for two more seasons, the Panthers can keep their attention on the bigger extension files and still sleep well knowing Uvis Balinskis can steady a third pair or step in cleanly when injuries hit. He's not flashy, but he keeps plays simple, moves pucks out, and that kind of quiet depth saves you points over an 82-game grind.

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