It means the world to me. Nineteen years is a long time, especially with one franchise, and I have so much pride and still a lot of expectations for my career in these eight years.’

The Panthers are bringing back all the key players that helped them win their championship, and Tomas Nosek was the latest re-signing.

Cup champion Florida Panthers and defenseman Aaron Ekblad agreed to an eight-year extension carrying a $6.1 million average-annual value, sources told ESPN Monday, confirming reports, a deal that keeps the veteran from becoming a free agent.