5 NHL teams that could sign Panthers' Sergei Bobrovsky in free agency originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky is one of the NHL’s top pending unrestricted free agents.
Given that he led the Panthers to two consecutive Stanley Cup championships in 2024 and 2025, some might assume he will re-sign in Florida. However, that is far from set in stone.
In a recent appearance on The Sheet with Jeff Marek, ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski reported that things between Bobrovsky and the Panthers are “pretty bad.” Therefore, if negotiations do not improve, there is certainly a chance that Bobrovsky will become a UFA on July 1.
If Bobrovsky does hit free agency, these five teams could be in the mix for his services.
If Bobrovsky hits the free-agent market, the Edmonton Oilers stand out as a prime potential destination. Tristan Jarry has struggled immensely since being traded to Edmonton, while Connor Ingram is a pending UFA.
With this, the Oilers would be wise to make a major push for Bobrovsky in free agency. He could finally give them a definitive answer to their starting-goalie problems.
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The San Jose Sharks are another team that could be a strong fit for Bobrovsky. The Sharks could use a true No. 1 goalie as they look to take that next step and be a playoff team next season.
Bobrovsky could also serve as a great mentor for fellow Russian goalie Yaroslav Askarov, who is still in the early stages of his NHL career.
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The Vegas Golden Knights could be another team to keep an eye on when it comes to Bobrovsky. Vegas had serious goaltending issues during the regular season, as all four of their goalies had save percentages under .900.
With the Golden Knights never being afraid to make a bold move, it would not be shocking if they pursued a veteran, Stanley Cup-winning goaltender like Bobrovsky in free agency.
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The Detroit Red Wings have two very promising goalie prospects waiting in the wings, with Sebastian Cossa and Trey Augustine. However, if the Red Wings feel neither goalie is ready for the NHL next season, it would make sense to sign Bobrovsky to a short-term deal.
The Red Wings have a ton of space heading into the summer, and Bobrovsky would have the potential to be an upgrade over John Gibson if he bounced back.
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Could a reunion between the Philadelphia Flyers and Bobrovsky be in the cards? While Dan Vladar has been a great story for the Flyers this season, Samuel Ersson has struggled mightily.
Given this, it would make sense for the Flyers to add a goalie this summer, and Bobrovsky would form a strong tandem with Vladar if signed.
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