The Florida Panthers have secured a key piece of their championship core. On Wednesday, the team signed forward Eetu Luostarinen to an eight-year, $40 million contract extension.
The deal, reported by contract tracking site Puckpedia, carries an average annual value of $5 million. It represents a significant raise from his current $3 million salary.
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Luostarinen, 27, has been with the Panthers since the 2020–21 season.
He has played a vital role in the franchise's back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2024 and 2025.
GM Zito Praises Luostarinen's Impact
General Manager Bill Zito announced the transaction and expressed confidence in the Finnish forward's future with the team.
"He has been an essential part of our two Stanley Cup victories. I am excited that Eetu is continuing his career with the Panthers," Zito said.
Zito also highlighted Luostarinen's professionalism and two-way game.
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"His contribution at even strength and on the penalty kill is critical to our team's success in South Florida," he added.
Over his seven-year NHL career, Luostarinen has recorded 61 goals and 101 assists for 162 points in 447 regular-season games.
In the playoffs, he has 10 goals and 24 assists in 73 games.
This past season, the Siilinjärvi native appeared in 73 regular-season games, scoring 11 goals and adding 22 assists.
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Internationally, he has won a World Championship gold medal and an Olympic bronze medal with Finland.
