Florida Panthers re-sign star rookie Mackie Samoskevich

Mackie Samoskevich can keep his bags unpacked — he’s staying in Florida for another year.

The back-to-back Stanley Cup Champions announced Thursday morning that they had re-signed the 2021 first-round draft pick on a one-year, $775,000 contract.

“Mackie is a talented young forward who demonstrated skill and maturity well above his age in his first full NHL season,” General Manager Bill Zito said. “He showcased his ability to slot into any hole in our lineup and find success this past season, which is a testament to both his play and character. We look forward to seeing him compete in our organization for years to come.”

In his first full NHL season, 22-year-old Samoskevich quietly carved out a standout rookie campaign for the Panthers, tallying 31 points (15 goals, 16 assists) through 72 games. His 15 goals were the seventh highest by a rookie in the franchise’s history and ranked fourth among U.S.-born rookies league-wide in 2024-25. He also tied Jonathan Huberdeau’s 2012-13 mark for the eighth-most points by a Panthers rookie.

Known for his clutch play, the Connecticut-native Samoskevich led the team with five game-winning goals this season, matching veteran Carter Verhaeghe. He even added a playoff assist in his postseason debut and appeared in four games during Florida’s run to a second straight Stanley Cup title.

Samoskevich came into the offseason as a free agent but with a catch.

Without enough NHL experience to be eligible for an offer sheet, Samoskevich’s free agency was restricted, putting him in a unique position — one that gave Florida full control in contract negotiations, with no risk of outside teams stepping in.

It does put the Cats in somewhat of a bind, now reaching the threshold of the offseason allowance. Samoskevich’s deal, while the league minimum at $775,000, puts the Panthers $3.725 million over their salary cap. Teams are permitted to exceed the league’s $95.5 million cap by up to 10%, or $9.55 million, during the summer as rosters fluctuate.

For now, the focus is on keeping the championship core intact on the Panthers’ quest to three-peat. Samoskevich’s return is another step toward doing just that.

With a Stanley Cup already under his belt and a promising rookie season behind him, the young forward will look to build on his success and play an even bigger role in the Panthers’ pursuit to solidifying themselves as a South Florida sports dynasty.