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.’

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.

Ekblad was considered the top defenseman on the free-agent market before inking the contract, worth $6.1 million annually.