The Florida Panthers and Boston Bruins are headed in opposite directions as they prepare for the 2025-26 NHL season, with the Panthers aiming to deepen their postseason success and the Bruins working to rebuild after a tough 2024-25 campaign. Amid salary cap pressures, the Panthers may consider trading forward Evan Rodrigues, presenting a possible opportunity for the Bruins to acquire him in a cap dump deal.
Florida Panthers Face Cap Challenges as Matthew Tkachuk Nears Return
The Panthers have managed to retain their key pending free agents this season, but the impending return of superstar Matthew Tkachuk from injury, likely in early 2026, could force them to clear salary cap space. Rodrigues, a 32-year-old forward, has been identified as a potential candidate to help free up this cap room if a move becomes necessary before the holiday period.
Evan Rodrigues’ Career and Impact on the Ice
Rodrigues entered the NHL undrafted after playing collegiate hockey at Boston University. He made his NHL debut during the 2015-16 season with the Buffalo Sabres, appearing in two games and recording a goal and assist. Rodrigues spent several seasons with the Sabres before joining the Pittsburgh Penguins for three years starting in the 2019-20 season. After a stint with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022-23, he signed with the Panthers, contributing to their first two Stanley Cup championships.
In 547 regular-season NHL games, Rodrigues has amassed 96 goals and 143 assists, totaling 239 points, which averages 0.44 points per game. Last season, he contributed 32 points across 82 games. His playoff experience is notable, with 13 goals and 28 assists in 61 postseason appearances, equating to 41 points.
Trade Possibilities and Bruins’ Roster Strategy
Rodrigues carries a $3 million cap hit and is under contract through the 2026-27 season, without any trade clauses. This situation simplifies potential trade negotiations, as the Bruins could absorb his entire salary cap charge if they free up enough space during the season. Rodrigues’ blend of playoff seasoning and playing style matches the Bruins’ request for players who can immediately contribute as they work toward returning to playoff contention following a roster overhaul last season.
While the Bruins have added future assets through their rebuilding process, adding a player like Rodrigues could demonstrate their commitment to competitiveness without risking core players such as David Pastrnak. Acquiring a reliable, experienced forward could serve as a stepping stone toward reclaiming their spot among the league’s elite.
Expected Trade Terms and Benefits for Both Teams
A plausible trade would likely center around prospects and draft picks rather than established players, as the Panthers’ chief aim would be to clear cap space rather than recover salary. A forecasted exchange might involve the Panthers receiving forward Riley Tufte along with a 2028 third-round draft pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick.
Tufte is currently on a two-way contract that enables him to move between leagues without waiver risk, offering the Panthers added depth for the playoff push and a potential top-six role at their American Hockey League affiliate. This arrangement would serve the interests of both franchises, with Florida gaining flexibility and Boston securing a cost-controlled, experienced forward.
Although rumors suggest the Panthers would prefer not to trade Rodrigues as a cap dump, financial realities could ultimately leave them little choice as the new season approaches. A deal with the Bruins would allow Florida to manage space while Boston gains a player who can help accelerate their rebuild.
As the 2025-26 NHL season draws nearer, following developments around the Bruins, Panthers, and Evan Rodrigues Bruins Panthers trade will be essential for fans tracking roster moves leading into the Stanley Cup race.