Aquisition: Things are getting serious between Florida Panthers Stanley Cup Champion and the Detroit Red Wings

The Florida Panthers are back to back Stanley Cup champions, but they may not be able to bring back all of their key players who are pending UFAs.

Conn Smythe Trophy winner Sam Bennett is up for a new contract, along with Brad Marchand, who was acquired from the divisional foe Boston Bruins at the Trade Deadline.

Additionally, Aaron Ekblad, who was the 1st overall pick by the Panthers in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, is a pending UFA. Based on the latest reports, the Panthers likely aren't going to be able to bring him back for a 2nd long-term deal.

Ekblad, who missed 20 games this year due to being suspended for a violation of the NHL's performance-enhancing substance policy, appears poised to hit the open market.

This represents a major opportunity for the Detroit Red Wings and GM Steve Yzerman in particular to make a major upgrade to their blue line that is badly needed after having once again missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The Red Wings, who are set to enter their centennial season, are in the midst of the longest postseason drought in team history. Considering they were founded in 1926, that's a startling reality.

An addition of Ekblad would represent a significant upgrade over the likes of Justin Holl and Jeff Petry. Right now, the Red Wings have approximately $21 million worth of salary cap space and could easily fit Ekblad under their cap.