One of the top unrestricted free agents of the NHL 2025-2026 season has finally landed himself a new deal. Where is this gritty player going next?
Luke Kunin became an unrestricted free agent after a disappointing season with the Columbus Blue Jackets. He spent a pointless season with the Jackets who were unable to qualify for the playoffs. Luke Kunin was drafted as the 16th overall pick in the 2016 NHL Draft by the Minnesota Wild.
Kunin has been going through some shaky contracts over the past years in NHL. Previously he was on a one-year-contract with the Blue Jackets. He was traded by the San Jose Sharks. He was the alternate captain for the Sharks on a year long contract with the team until his trade in March. San Jose Sharks GM, Mike Grier, called Kunin “a good example for our young players“.
Luke Kunin has been facing battles both on and off track the rink. He suffers from Type-1 diabetes and has to keep a regular check of sugar levels during the games. However, his ability to stay on and play during the match is commendable. His perseverance made him a nominee for the 2024 King Clancy Memorial Trophy for his work with Breakthrough T1D.
The Florida Panthers have been the talk of the town with their back to back championship victories in 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 NHL seasons. As such, the Panthers are willing to create a better roster with their players in order to solidify their chances for the Stanley Cup Playoffs next season.
The Florida Panthers have signed Luke Kunin on an year long contract for 2025-2026 for $775000. Kunin’s play-style is good fit for the Florida Panthers. He is a rather smart and defensive player who specialises in penalties. Furthermore, Luke Kunin can adapt his play style and work as a centre and winger during the game.
His play-style and experience gives the Panthers a good pick for their bottom-six. Experts suggest that Kunin will compete for a spot on Panther’s fourth line after signing this new deal with them. Kunin’s stats speak for themselves with 73 goals, 142 points, 387 penalty minutes, and 887 hits across 434 games in his NHL career. It is a low-risk move for the Florida Panthers which can lead to some interesting results down the season.
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