Two Panthers veterans land on NHL waivers ahead of trade deadline day

According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Panthers have officially placed defenseman Tobias Bjornfot and goaltender Louis Domingue on waivers this afternoon.

The inclusion of Domingue is a massive head-scratcher that has the hockey world buzzing. As reported just hours ago, the Panthers literally signed the 34-year-old veteran to a one-year, two-way contract this morning.

To immediately expose him to the waiver wire is a bizarre "clean slate" maneuver, but one that is likely driven by extreme salary cap gymnastics ahead of Friday's trade deadline.

By placing Domingue on waivers right after signing him, Zito is attempting to sneak the goaltender down to the AHL's Charlotte Checkers. If Domingue clears, he can serve as a highly capable emergency option for the postseason without occupying a precious spot on the active NHL roster.

It provides the exact "solid execution" needed to navigate complex deadline cap constraints, keeping the door wide open for a potential blockbuster trade involving Sergei Bobrovsky.

As for Bjornfot, the 24-year-old defenseman has struggled to carve out a permanent role in head coach Paul Maurice's rotation. Waiving him clears additional cap space and an active roster spot, allowing the organization to recall a different prospect or, more likely, acquire a heavier, physical blueliner to provide a necessary "bump" before the deadline.

Both players must wait 24 hours to learn their fate. If they pass through unclaimed, Zito will have successfully executed a masterclass in roster manipulation. If not, the Panthers lose them for absolutely nothing. The tension in Sunrise is officially at an all-time high.