Panthers Eye Wallstedt for Goaltending Future

On March 27, the Florida Panthers are fighting to stay alive in the Eastern Conference playoff race with a record of 35 wins, 32.

Losses and three overtime losses for 73 points.

They sit 14 points behind the New York Islanders for the last wildcard spot, but their eyes are already shifting to next season's goal-tending.

Needs as both Sergei Barovsky and Daniel Tarasov head into the final year of their deals.

Talks of begun with Barovsky, though nothing is said for Tarasov, leaving the crease wide open after losing back-up Spencer Knight in a prior trade.

One intriguing option floating around is Minnesota Wild Prospect, Jesper Wallstedt, the 23-year-old Swedish goalie drafted 20th overall.

In 2021, Wallstedt has shown real promise, earning a bronze at the 2022 World Juniors with a .940 save percentage and posting.

Solid numbers in the American Hockey League, plus NHL Stints, including 15 wins and four shutouts this season.

For the Panthers, he could bridge the gap as Barovsky nears 38 and provide long-term stability.

Landing him would likely demand a hefty price from General Manager Bill Zito, such as a first-round pick and players like Ford's Evan Rodriguez, or Prospect.

Mackie Samoskovich, especially a Florida holds on to their protected pick this year.

Pursuing Wallstedt makes sense to lock down the future in net while chasing one more cup run now, keeping the Panthers competitive even if this.

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