The Panthers ensured that one of their top young players will be back for another year.
Florida and 22-year-old winger Mackie Samoskevich agreed to a one-year contract, keeping Samoskevich on the team after he became a restricted free agent.
“Mackie is a talented young forward who demonstrated skill and maturity well above his age in his first full NHL season,” Panthers general manager Bill Zito said in a news release. “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.”
Samoskevich, a Newtown, Connecticut native, was the Panthers’ first-round pick in 2021. After two seasons at Michigan, Samoskevich started his professional career with the Panthers’ AHL affiliate, the Charlotte Checkers. He spent most of the 2023-24 campaign in the AHL but made his debut on Oct. 12, 2023. He was a Black Ace — a reserve — during the Panthers’ 2023 and 2024 trips to the Stanley Cup Final.
Samoskevich broke into Florida’s lineup this season, playing in 72 games and scoring 15 goals with 16 assists. Five of his 15 goals were game-winners, tying Carter Verhaeghe for the team lead. The young winger played in four of the Panthers’ playoff games this season, notching one assist.
