If the Winnipeg Jets do expose their captain to the open market, it appears as though Andrew Ladd will have suitors.
NBC's Darren Dreger reported Wednesday that the Florida Panthers would have interest in the pending free agent, as well as perhaps the Vancouver Canucks.
Being an experienced, all-situations player that can fit in just about anywhere in the top nine, Ladd would appear to be a perfect fit for the Panthers, who are likely postseason-bound for the first time in four seasons. He would also come with familiarity to management, having once been acquired by general manager Dale Tallon while he was ran the Chicago Blackhawks.
The Canucks' apparent interest, though, is a little less discernible. Vancouver is limping into the All-Star break and sliding in the standings, now seated fifth in the Pacific Division. It would be difficult to justify moving a prospect or pick for a player intent on negotiating a lucrative deal, but as Dreger noted, Canucks general manager Jim Benning has expressed interest in Ladd previously.
The 30-year-old owns disappointing offensive numbers in his all-important contract season, having scored just 10 goals and 27 points after posting a career-best 62 points last season.
