How NHL Free Agency Has Affected The Atlantic Division

FLORIDA PANTHERS

Apr 1, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Dave Bolland (63) carries the puck against the Calgary Flames during the third period at the Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated Calgary 3-2. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

OUT- Jesse Winchester, Tom Gilbert, Scott Clemmensen, Ed Jovanovski

IN – Jussi Jokinen, Dave Bolland, Shawn Thornton, Al Montoya, Derek MacKenzie, Willie Mitchell

STILL PENDING – Ryan Whitney, Scott Gomez, Matt Gilroy, Krys Barch

Are they better or worse? – The Panthers opened the wallet to both rid themselves of problem contracts as well as bring in some players to help their young roster advance faster.  They will definitely be better, and if first overall pick Aaron Ekblad makes the jump, the Panthers could make some big improvements and climb in the standings.