Panthers Sign Forward Mackie Samoskevich to One-Year Extension

The Florida Panthers and forward Mackie Samoskevich agreed to a one-year contract extension, the team announced on Thursday.

The deal carries a $775K AAV, per PuckPedia.

Samoskevich, 22, appeared in 72 games last year, putting 31 points (15-16-31) in his rookie season with the Panthers. He also appeared in four playoff games during Florida’s run to winning the Stanley Cup last season.

“Mackie is a talented young forward who demonstrated skill and maturity well above his age in his first full NHL season,” said Panthers President of Hockey Operations & General Manager Bill Zito. “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.”

A one-year bridge deal is beneficial to both the Panthers and Samoskevich. For the team, they will have more money to spread out next offseason as both the cap is going up and money is coming off the books — most notably goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky’s $10M AAV. As for the player, Samoskevich will have the chance to improve his stock and lineup a bigger payday in his second NHL season before locking into a longer-term extension.

When his current deal expires next offseason, Samoskevich will still be a Restricted Free Agent (RFA).