The Florida Panthers have officially reunited with one of the franchise’s most beloved defensemen, signing veteran blueliner Radko Gudas to a six-year contract carrying a $1.5 million annual cap hit. The deal comes just days after Florida acquired Gudas’ negotiating rights from the Anaheim Ducks, paving the way for his return to Sunrise before free agency opened.
Gudas, 36, spent three seasons with the Panthers from 2020 to 2023 and quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his physical style, shot blocking, and leadership. He played a key role in Florida’s run to the 2023 Stanley Cup Final before departing for Anaheim, where he served as captain over the past two seasons.
The contract structure is team-friendly, featuring an $850,000 salary and $650,000 signing bonus in Year 1 before gradually increasing to $1 million in salary over the final three seasons. The deal also includes no trade protection, giving the Panthers maximum roster flexibility moving forward.
While Gudas is no longer the top-four defenseman he was in his first stint with Florida, he still brings valuable experience, toughness, and a veteran presence to a Panthers blue line looking to remain among the NHL’s elite. His familiarity with head coach Paul Maurice’s system and the organization’s culture should allow him to transition seamlessly back into the lineup.
For general manager Bill Zito, the reunion represents another cost-effective addition as Florida continues to build around its championship core. At just $1.5 million against the salary cap, Gudas provides dependable depth, penalty-killing ability, and the type of physical edge that has become synonymous with Panthers hockey.
After three seasons away, “The Butcher” is officially back in South Florida, and Panthers fans will once again get to see one of the franchise’s most popular defensemen wearing the red, navy, and gold.
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