Niko Mikkola, a former defenseman for the St. Louis Blues, has officially signed an impressive eight-year contract extension with the Florida Panthers, featuring an average annual value of $5 million. This commitment underscores the Panthers’ faith in Mikkola after he emerged as a cornerstone of their defensive lineup during their exciting back-to-back Stanley Cup victories.
Over the 2024-25 season, Mikkola, now 29 years old, reached new personal bests, showcasing his offensive skills with six goals and a total of 22 points across 76 games. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has not gone unnoticed. Panthers General Manager Bill Zito expressed his appreciation, stating, “Niko has proven himself to be a dependable defenseman who uses his speed and physicality to impact both ends of the ice. He was an indispensable piece of our past two championship campaigns, and we are thrilled that Niko will be continuing his career with the Florida Panthers.”
Mikkola, who stands at an impressive 6-foot-6, was originally selected in the fifth round of the 2015 NHL Draft by the Blues. During his tenure in St. Louis, he recorded four goals and amassed 20 points over 139 games, although it was marked by defensive errors and an inclination to take unnecessary penalties. However, his time with the Panthers has seen a transformation; he has become a reliable defender, an adept puck mover, and has significantly reduced his penalty issues while still maintaining his aggressive play style.
Additionally, Mikkola has formed a strong pairing with fellow defenseman Seth Jones, creating a robust presence on the ice that is expected to benefit the Panthers for years to come. This extension solidifies the Panthers’ defense as they aim for continued success in the NHL. Mikkola’s journey reflects a positive trajectory, showcasing the potential for growth and excellence in professional sports.