MAJOR: One of the NHL's Most Expensive Players Nearly Bought Out
PUBLICATION
Tom Banks
March 13, 2024 (8:03)
The Florida Panthers are arguably the best team in the entire NHL from the goaltender to the forward group and the veteran blue line, but it's the play of their elite net minder that may make them Stanley Cup favourites in 2023-24.
Sergei Bobrovksy almost bought out?
It hasn't always been that way for Bobrovsky however, as this time last year he was at risk of being bought out by a team that was struggling mightily.
🐆 𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆: #Panthers G Sergei Bobrovsky was at risk of being bought out just around a year ago.
Since February 1st, Bob ranks (amongst #NHL goalies w/ 10+ GP):
• 𝟐𝐧𝐝 in save percentage (.946)
• 𝟏𝐬𝐭 in goals against average (1.50)
• 𝐓-𝟏𝐬𝐭 in shutouts (2)
• 𝟑𝐫𝐝 in goals saved above expected (+11.40)
On top of being a top flight goaltender this year, Bob put together one of the best postseason performances by a goaltender in recent memory last season, backstopping the wildcard Panthers to a Stanley Cup Final appearance. With three years left on his deal at a $10 million cap hit per year however, the Panthers decided to hang onto their veteran goaltender, and it may have been the move that saved the franchise's success.
Now, loaded with talent such as Matthew Tkachuk, Alexandar Barkov, Sam Bennett, Sam Reinhart and many others, they are one of the favourites for the Stanley Cup this season in front of Bobrovsky.
In 2023-24, the 35-year old has put up an impressive .918 save percentage along with a 2.29 GAA, and it's safe to say that the Panthers are ecstatic that they didn't buy him out after all, as they've had one Stanley Cup Finals appearance, with the hopes of another this season.
POLL |
MARS 13 | 119 ANSWERS MAJOR: One of the NHL's Most Expensive Players Nearly Bought Out Will the Florida Panthers win the Stanley Cup in 2023-24? |
Yes | 39 | 32.8 % |
No | 80 | 67.2 % |
LIST OF POLLS |
|
4 hours ago | By Tyler Ball Edmonton Oilers Darnell Nurse drops the gloves and faces off against Predators Michael McCarron |
|
7 hours ago | By Tom Banks Buffalo Sabres set to shockingly scratch young 8th overall pick |
|
10 hours ago | By TJ Tucker Seven former NHLers mysteriously have their contracts terminated |
|
10 hours ago | By Tom Banks Edmonton Oilers make major changes after horrible start to the NHL season |
|
13 hours ago | By Tom Banks Dallas Stars sign star player to massive $66 million deal |
|
13 hours ago | By Tom Banks Pittsburgh Penguins analyst calls out former star Tristan Jarry: worst contract in the NHL? |
|
15 hours ago | By TJ Tucker Vancouver Canucks defenseman unexpectedly leaves the team indefinitely for personal reasons |
|
16 hours ago | By TJ Tucker What was really said by Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube during last night's timeout revealed |