Aaron Ekblad had a good bounce back year after his concussion and rough 2016-17 campaign, while Keith Yandle continued to contribute consistently on the offensive end, as well as tighten up defensively too.
Both Michael Matheson and Mark Pysyk continued their steady form, despite facing rough patches during chunks of the year. However, the problem with three of those four is that they are more committed to going for goal than protecting their own, with Pysyk being the only exception.
That’s why, during this offseason, the Panthers need to acquire a shutdown, defensive defenseman for the top four.