Panthers GM Makes His ‘Preference’ in Brad Marchand-Aaron Ekblad Situation Clear originally appeared on Athlon Sports. After signing Sam Bennett to a long-term deal, Florida Panthers general manager Bill Zito must turn his attention to fellow pending free agents Brad Marchand and Aaron Ekblad.

NHL free agency opens on July 1. If Marchand reaches the open market, he'll have suitors. According to TSN's Darren Dreger, three teams will form the main competition trying to keep Marchand from returning to Florida: the Boston Bruins, the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Utah Mammoth.

Barring Marchand opting for comfort over cash and taking a below-market deal, it seems unlikely that the Bruins will reel in their former star.