Niko Mikkola signs eight-year extension with Florida Panthers; check details

The Florida Panthers have secured a key piece of their championship roster, signing defenseman Niko Mikkola to an eight-year contract extension, as announced by general manager Bill Zito on Thursday.

While financial details were not disclosed, the deal, which begins in the 2026-27 season, highlights the team’s commitment to maintaining their defensive core as they chase a historic three-peat.

This move comes at a challenging time for the Panthers, who are without stars Matthew Tkachuk and captain Aleksander Barkov due to injuries.

(More to follow)