Panthers general manager Bill Zito, who previously said the Jones trade wouldn't stop the club from keeping "either one or both" defensemen, will now look to head into the 2025-26 season with Ekblad and Jones anchoring the team's top two pairings.

Florida Panthers President of Hockey Operations & General Manager Bill Zito announced today that the club has agreed to terms with defenseman Aaron Ekblad on an eight-year contract extension through the 2032-33 season.

Ekblad reportedly is re-signing with the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions on an eight-year contract worth $48.8 million