Sergei Bobrovsky is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025–26 NHL season. With the Florida Panthers struggling with injuries, Bobrowski was involved in NHL trade rumors, but he never materialized. However, what's the latest on the goaltender's retirement plans and future with the Panthers?
Bobrowski has made it clear he is not retiring from the NHL and wants to stay with the Panthers, as Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reports on the 32 Thoughts Podcast. At 37 years old, it's fair to question the Florida goaltender's future in the NHL.
After all, 40-year-old goaltender Jonathan Quick is set to retire from the league after the New York Rangers' elimination this season.
Why should the Florida Panthers bring back Sergei Bobrovsky?
Bobrovsky has struggled during the 2025–26 NHL season, posting a career-low .887 save percentage and allowing 3.07 goals per game. The 37-year-old goaltender has allowed 10 goals on 44 shots in his last two games against the Ottawa Senators and Pittsburgh Penguins. Despite his decline in play, Florida should bring Bobrovsky back next season.
While Bobrowski's stats haven't been great, the goaltender is on par with the players Florida puts on the ice every night. It's been a tough season for the Panthers, who have dealt with significant injuries to Alexander Barkov, Matthew Tkachuk, Brad Marchand, Sam Reinhart, Sam Bennett and others.
The 40-year-old has been described as the "backbone" of the Panthers and the "biggest reason" the organization has two Stanley Cup rings. Bobrowski's Florida teammates are fully behind him. With a better team on the ice during the 2026-27 NHL season, Bobrowski should have better overall statistics.
Backup goalie for Florida Daniil Tarasov has struggled with an .893 save percentage while allowing 3.12 goals per game. The stats aren't bad for a backup goaltender, but Bobrowski is a proven option who can lead Florida to the Stanley Cup playoffs next year.
Since retirement is not in the picture, the Panthers should bring Bobrovsky back with a new contract this summer.
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