As general manager Tom Rowe alluded to after signing Vincent Trocheck, the Florida Panthers have re-signed center Derek MacKenzie to a two-year contract extension. The team did not disclose the terms of the contract, but it’s reported to carry a $1.35 million AAV.
“Derek is a leader on our team and a true professional,” said Rowe. “His experience, work ethic and character make him a respected presence on the ice and throughout our organization.”
While MacKenzie missed some time last season with an injury, he managed to put up six goals and 13 points in 64 contests. He’s yet another piece in the puzzle that the Panthers are putting together this summer, keeping a veteran presence on a team that is slowly being turned over to the youth.
While MacKenzie and Jaromir Jagr have been re-signed, the team has also acquired Reto Berra and James Reimer in net, and given long-term deals to Trocheck, Aaron Ekblad and Reilly Smith.
Dustin Nelson is the News Editor for The Hockey Writers. He’s a contributor to Hockey Prospectus, Hockey Wilderness, and writes a column for Rotowire. He’s also written for Gone Puck Wild, Wild Xtra, InDigest, Electric Literature, The Rumpus, Tiny Mix Tapes, Prefix Magazine & other publications. Have a tip? Email him at dlukenelson[at]gmail[dot]com.
