March 1, 2025 | 8:05pm ET
TheFourthPeriod.com

PANTHERS ACQUIRE JONES FROM BLACKHAWKS

Seth Jones, defenceman

The Florida Panthers have acquired defenceman Seth Jones and a 2026 fourth-round draft pick from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for goaltender Spencer Knight and a 2026 conditional first-round draft pick.

The Blackhawks are also retaining $2.5 million of Jones’ annual $9.5 million salary cap hit for the duration of his contract.

“Seth is an elite veteran defenseman and a proven leader in our league,” said Panthers GM Bill Zito. “He has been one of the most consistent players of the past decade serving as a reliable workhorse on both sides of the puck, and he will help our club continue to compete at the highest level.”

TFP’s David Pagnotta first reported in January that Jones would be open to waiving his NMC and accept a trade to a contender. A month later, Jones admitted to wanting a trade.

Jones, 30, has four more seasons remaining on his contract after this season.

In 42 games with the Blackhawks this season, Jones registered seven goals and 20 assists for 27 points.

Jones was No.5 on the TFP Trade Watch List.

Knight, 23, posted a 12-8-1 record in 23 games (21 starts) with Florida this season, along with a 2.40 goals-against-average, a .907 save percentage and two shutouts.

“On behalf of the entire Florida Panthers organization, we would like to thank Spencer for his many contributions to our club and the South Florida community both on and off the ice,” said Zito. “He is a first-class individual and we wish him success in his young professional career.”