Florida Panthers lock in veteran forward Sam Lafferty
The Panthers announced a one-year, two-way contract for Sam Lafferty, securing the 31-year-old forward for the 2026-27 season. The deal, reported by general manager Bill Zito, adds depth and experience to a roster that reached the Stanley Cup Final the previous year.
Lafferty spent the 2025-26 campaign with the Chicago Blackhawks, appearing in 29 games and contributing two points. Across his NHL career, he has logged 92 points in 378 games, having suited up for the Blackhawks, Buffalo Sabres, Vancouver Canucks, Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins.
On the international stage, Lafferty represented the United States at the 2026 IIHF World Championship, skating in seven games and helping the team compete at the highest level of world hockey.
From college standout to NHL journeyman
Before turning professional, Lafferty dominated at Brown University, where he served as team captain in his junior and senior seasons. His collegiate performance earned him All-ECAC Third Team honors in 2016-17 and multiple All-Ivy League selections.
The Penguins drafted him in the fourth round of the 2014 NHL Draft, and he has since built a career marked by resilience and versatility, traits the Panthers hope to translate into playoff success.
The move underscores Florida’s intent to blend youthful talent with seasoned veterans as they look to defend their championship pedigree. Lafferty’s signing also reflects the team’s confidence in his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively in a bottom-six role.