Nick Suzuki showcased a stellar performance, netting a goal and adding two assists to lead the Montreal Canadiens to a 4-2 victory over the Florida Panthers. Juraj Slafkovsky also contributed significantly with a goal and an assist. The Canadiens capitalized on their power play, with Patrik Laine scoring his 15th power play goal of the season, while Brendan Gallagher sealed the win with a late empty-netter. Sam Montembeault made 24 saves, ensuring the Canadiens secured a spot in the Eastern Conference wild-card race.

For the Panthers, Sam Reinhart and Seth Jones found the back of the net, but their chances of reclaiming the top spot in the Atlantic Division fell short. Despite a competitive game, the Panthers allowed the Canadiens to convert crucial power plays, which ultimately decided the match.

The Florida Panthers continue to dominate the NHL despite missing key players like Matthew Tkachuk and Aaron Ekblad. With Tkachuk sidelined since February due to injury and Ekblad serving a suspension, the Panthers have won nine of their first 14 games after the season resumed, showcasing their depth and resilience.

Sam Bennett has stepped up, matching Aleksander Barkov in scoring with 12 points, while the team’s defense has been stellar, allowing only two goals per game during this stretch. New addition Seth Jones has fit seamlessly into the lineup, playing over 25 minutes a game. Coach Paul Maurice remains optimistic about the team's performance and believes they can handle the absence of star players effectively.

The Florida Panthers made headlines with their recent acquisition of defenseman Seth Jones, primarily to bolster their right defense alongside Aaron Ekblad. However, the unexpected suspension of Ekblad for 20 games raised questions about the long-term future of both him and forward Sam Bennett with the team. GM Bill Zito reassured fans that the addition of Jones does not hinder their ability to retain both players.

Discussions regarding Bennett's contract have resumed, indicating a strong desire from both parties to maintain their successful partnership. With July 1 approaching, Bennett is in a prime position as a potential free agent, but insiders suggest the Panthers are keen on keeping him. The team's salary cap considerations will be crucial in determining if they can keep both players without sacrificing key components of their roster.

The Chicago Blackhawks are currently spending over $30 million on players not contributing to the roster this season, a reflection of their rebuilding phase and financial strategy. Key figures include injury-absent players like Jason Dickinson and Laurent Brossoit, each commanding significant AAVs. The team's aggressive cap management includes retaining portions of contracts from players like Mikko Rantanen and Seth Jones, providing flexibility for future acquisitions. The Blackhawks are expected to see a considerable reduction in this spending next season, provided players return from injury and contract expirations unwind.

The Florida Panthers have had a transformative week, making significant moves that reshape their roster and prospects for the postseason. The team initiated a series of trades, highlighted by the acquisition of defenseman Seth Jones from Chicago and star forward Brad Marchand from Boston.

With Matthew Tkachuk's $9.5 million cap hit placed on LTIR due to injury, GM Bill Zito capitalized on the situation to bolster the team’s lineup. Marchand, regarded for his leadership and skill, adds depth to an already potent offense. His past battles against the Panthers only heighten the anticipation of his on-ice impact.

Additionally, the Panthers solidified their goaltending by signing two netminders and re-signed key forwards to new contracts. Zito expressed optimism regarding Tkachuk's potential return for the playoffs, while hinting that integrating Marchand into the team will be seamless. The added firepower positions Florida as a strong contender for the Stanley Cup, especially with an exciting second line featuring Marchand and Tkachuk poised to create havoc for opposing defenses.