The Florida Panthers announced a series of qualifying offers on Tuesday, a procedural step that keeps a core group of American Hockey League players under contract as the team prepares for the July 1 free‑agency window.
Standout Performances in the AHL
Ben Steeves led the Charlotte Checkers in goals, points and penalty minutes last season and has compiled 75 points in 140 games over the past three years, underscoring his offensive consistency. Defenseman Tobias Bjornfot added 12 points in 33 games for Charlotte and has reached 30 points in 83 career appearances, while Mikulas Hovorka ranked third among Checkers blue‑liners in scoring with 28 points in 117 games.
Roster Implications
The club opted not to extend qualifying offers to veterans Mike Benning, Wilmer Skoog and Evan Nause, meaning the three will become unrestricted free agents. Benning, who logged 89 points in 183 games over the last three seasons, and Skoog, with 92 points in 182 games, bring a wealth of experience, while Nause, a 2021 second‑round pick, has spent most of his professional career in the ECHL.
These moves come as the Checkers navigate a transitional phase, balancing the upside of emerging talent with the stability of seasoned players. The organization hopes the retained prospects will help push the Panthers toward a deeper playoff run while the free‑agency market reshapes the affiliate’s roster.