As the Florida Panthers look to shed $3.725 million before opening night, forward Evan Rodrigues has emerged as one of the most intriguing trade candidates on the market. With no trade protection and a team-friendly $3 million AAV through 2026-27, Rodrigues could be the perfect target for any team needing scoring depth, versatility and playoff experience.
Dan Rosen of NHL.com confirmed on Wednesday that conversations are indeed being had.
“There's ZERO DOUBT here that teams already have, currently are or soon will be inquiring about his availability. He's a valuable, versatile, veteran player the Panthers do not take for granted.”
The Toronto Maple Leafs are among those reportedly interested, according to The Fourth Period, and it’s easy to see why. Following Mitch Marner’s exit, GM Brad Treliving has prioritized adding scoring by committee, but Rodrigues offers more than just filler. He’s a proven playoff performer, tallying 30 points in 45 post-season games over the past two years (15 points in 21 games this past post-season) during Florida’s back-to-back Stanley Cup Final runs. Add in his ability to play anywhere in the top nine and shoot right, and it’s a no-brainer for a Leafs team that just added Dakota Joshua and still needs one more weapon.
Rodrigues’ value extends beyond Toronto. The Edmonton Oilers, still stinging from their consecutive Cup Final losses to Florida, could use his veteran presence and post-season poise in a top-nine group that’s now relying heavily on unproven youth. There’s a lot to like about Ike Howard and Matthew Savoie, but if they struggle to transition into full-time NHLers, at least Rodrigues has already proven he can produce under pressure. The Oilers know firsthand how much damage Rodrigues can do.
A team like the Chicago Blackhawks also makes sense. With Connor Bedard entering his third season, GM Kyle Davidson needs to surround him with reliable offense. At $3 million, Rodrigues offers low-risk upside and could be flipped at the deadline if Chicago falls out of the race. If Rodrigues works out, he could be one of the few Chicago additions that contribute as expected.
Don’t count out Detroit, either. While the “Yzerplan” remains mysterious to many, the Red Wings need cost-effective ways to boost their offense. Rodrigues fits the mold of a smart, strategic addition who can make an immediate contribution.
Even the Minnesota Wild could benefit, especially if they move on from Marco Rossi. Rodrigues’ ability to play center or wing makes him a strong fit for a team trying to stay competitive amid ongoing issues with one of their top RFAs.
Ultimately, Rodrigues may not get traded. The Panthers would love to keep a player this effective, and if they can find other ways to get under the cap ceiling, they’ll try. Jeff Marek recently noted during an appearance on Sekeres and Price that Rodrigues “wants to be there, they want him there. However Bill Zito can do this, I think they want to make Evan Rodrigues work there.”
If it’s not possible and Rodrigues is on the way out, plenty of teams should be calling.
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