Report: Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov on the move?

ESPN's Greg Wyshynski reports that Florida Panthers captain and perennial Selke Award candidate Aleksander Barkov could be in play on the trade market if Panthers GM Bill Zito isn't able to sign Barkov to a contract extension prior to the 2022 NHL Trade Deadline. The 25 year old centerman is in the final year of a six year contract that pays him $5.9 million annually and is slated to become an unrestricted free agent next offseason.

From Wyshynski:

Aleksander Barkov is entering the last year of his six-year contract with the Florida Panthers. ESPN asked GM Bill Zito if there was a date when he’d have to consider trading the star center. He said there isn’t one, because “I’m confident we’ll be able to work something out.” Zito said an extension will “probably” come before the 2021-22 NHL season begins in October. Barkov’s agent Mark Gandler wouldn’t comment on the negotiations.

If indeed Barkov hits the trade market, you have to imagine that literally every team in the NHL would be interested. I mean, you have a 25 year old captain capable of putting up a point per game and absolutely dominating the defensive game. He's a 6 foot, 3 inch, 215 pound workhorse with immense talent who plays the game like he's a 4th line grinder. In short, he's a coach's dream and a favorite amongst his teammates. Sure, he scores big goals and makes pretty plays, but he also does all the little things well and he plays the game with such attention to detail. 

Again, if indeed Barkov hits the trade market you can expect a LOT of teams to put together offers for his services. It's not often that a 25 year old, superstar centerman becomes available, so when he does you have to do your due diligence and put your best offer in. If I'm one of the teams in the hunt for Buffalo Sabres captain Jack Eichel and I'm getting frustrated in the Sabres' posturing and demands, I'm maybe going to put those negotiations on the back burner while I ring up Bill Zito and get some info on a potential Barkov deal.