The Florida Panthers signed goaltender Akira Schmid to a two-year, $4 million contract ($2 million per season), avoiding arbitration after filing for it. Schmid, 26, was acquired from the Vegas Golden Knights in late June for a 2028 third-round pick and is expected to serve as a key option behind Jacob Markström. In 2025-26 with Vegas, he went 16-10-6 in 34 games with a 2.59 GAA and .893 save percentage, plus two shutouts, and he has 82 career NHL appearances. The Panthers, after losing Sergei Bobrovsky to free agency, have reshaped the roster that also included signing Jacob Markström, with management noting Schmid’s size, athleticism and drive. Florida entered the offseason with a cap challenge, about $778,214 over the $104 million cap based on its 23 highest contracts, but can adjust through roster moves before the season begins. Panthers President Bill Zito underscored the fit and potential Schmid brings to the team’s net, while highlighting his competitive profile.