The Florida Panthers are quickly addressing their need for a backup goaltender by acquiring Daniil Tarasov from the Columbus Blue Jackets. This trade was reported by TSN’s Pierre LeBrun and confirmed by the Blue Jackets, who will receive Florida’s 2025 fifth-round draft pick in exchange for Tarasov.
Tarasov, once considered a future star for Columbus after being selected 86th overall in the 2017 NHL Draft, has faced challenges in his career, particularly in North America. After showing great promise in leagues such as the MHL, Liiga, and KHL, he joined the Blue Jackets but had a rocky start, playing only 43 games over his first two seasons in the AHL and NHL. However, he became a full-time member of Columbus’ goaltending lineup in the 2023-24 season, managing a respectable 8-11-3 record.
Despite a challenging 2024-25 season, where his performance dipped significantly, the Panthers believe that Tarasov can revive his career behind Sergei Bobrovsky, who played 54 games last season and remains a dependable starter. With a supportive defensive lineup in front of him, Tarasov has the potential to improve both his game and future contract prospects before hitting free agency in 2026.
This acquisition not only fills a critical position for the Panthers but also provides Tarasov with another opportunity to develop his skills in a more favorable environment. Peering into the future, the Panthers may have made a savvy move that could benefit both the team and Tarasov as he looks to reclaim his status as a promising goaltender in the NHL.