This time, Zito pulled off another major deal, trading 2019 first-round pick and backup goalie Spencer Knight, along with a future first-round selection in 2026 or 2027, to acquire Jones from the Blackhawks. Once again, the Panthers managed to add a high-caliber player without disrupting their core lineup.

Seth Jones landing in Florida has one former Panthers star excited to see what the defenseman can do in new digs.

Then, on Wednesday, two Stanley Cup favorites emerged as the top candidates to land Jones via trade ahead of the March 7 deadline. Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Seth Jones (4) looks to pass the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The reigning Stanley Cup champions have acquired defenseman Seth Jones and a 2026 fourth-round pick from the Blackhawks, Florida announced Saturday night. Chicago, in return, is getting a 2026 conditional first-round pick and goaltender Spencer Knight.

• Captain Nick Foligno (back) is day-to-day after missing Saturday’s win over the Ducks. Jason Dickinson (left ankle) was on the ice before the morning skate and Sörensen said his recovery is going in the right direction but is “going to be some time.”

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Now that Blackhawks teammates and fans are aware of Jones' trade request, how long can a mature, professional dynamic hold?

The Florida Panthers acquisition of Seth Jones last weekend sent a message to the NHL that the defending Stanley Cup champs were once again the team to beat.

The Panthers sent goaltender Spencer Knight and a conditional 2026 first-round pick to the Chicago Blackhawks for Jones and a 2026 fourth-round pick.

Defensemen Seth Jones and Ryan Lindgren and forward Gustav Nyquist were on the move as three Central Division teams got a jump on the NHL’s looming trade deadline.

The defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers have acquired defenseman Seth Jones in a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks