The Florida Panthers have two trades featured prominently in USA Today's list of the top NHL trades since 2000. The blockbuster acquisition of Matthew Tkachuk ranks first, while the deadline deal for Brad Marchand comes in at fourth. These moves have been pivotal in the team's recent success, including back-to-back Stanley Cup wins.
Since Bill Zito became general manager and president of hockey operations in September 2020, the Florida Panthers have aggressively pursued trades to build a championship contender. This strategy has paid off handsomely, with the team capturing Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025. Three of their top five point producers during those playoff runs—Sam Bennett, Sam Reinhart, and now others—were acquired via trade.
USA Today's Friday article highlights two Panthers trades as standout moves since 2000. At No. 1 is the July 22, 2022, blockbuster for Matthew Tkachuk from the Calgary Flames. In exchange, Florida sent forward Jonathan Huberdeau, defenseman MacKenzie Weegar, prospect Cole Schwindt, and a conditional 2025 first-round pick to Calgary. Schwindt has since returned to the Panthers after being claimed off waivers this season.
"Tkachuk has been the best player in the deal," the article states. "His physical presence changed the Panthers into a contender." Since arriving, Tkachuk has led Florida to three Stanley Cup Finals, winning two. Despite injuries, he has recorded 69 playoff points (25 goals, 44 assists) in 67 games and 254 regular-season points (88 goals, 166 assists) in 211 games.
Ranking fourth is the March 7 trade deadline acquisition of Brad Marchand from the Boston Bruins for a conditional 2027 second-round pick, later upgraded to a first-rounder in 2027 or 2028. Marchand thrived on Florida's third line with Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen, posting 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists) and a +17 plus/minus in 23 playoff games. Three of his goals were game-winners, including two in overtime.
"Florida probably would not have repeated without Marchand," USA Today notes. Following the Cup run, Marchand signed a six-year extension with the Panthers.
These trades underscore the Panthers' bold approach in the market, transforming them into a dominant force.
