Florida Panthers Sign Bokondji Imama to One-Year Two-Way Deal

Florida Panthers announced on July 7, 2026 that they have signed forward Bokondji Imama to a one‑year, two‑way contract for the 2026‑27 season, aiming to add size and experience as the team sits 14th in the Eastern Conference with a 40‑38 record and a three‑game winning streak.

Who is Bokondji Imama?

Bokondji Imama is a 29‑year‑old, 6‑foot‑1, 223‑pound forward from Montreal, Quebec. He appeared in two NHL games with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2025‑26 and logged 66 AHL contests for the Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton Penguins, posting 11 points (six goals, five assists). His career includes stints with the Ottawa Senators and Arizona Coyotes, where he tallied two NHL goals.

What does his AHL track record suggest?

Imama’s AHL résumé spans 400 games across three clubs – the Ontario Reign, Tucson Roadrunners and Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton – where he accumulated 88 points (38 goals, 50 assists). Those numbers show a player comfortable with the grind of the minor league, capable of contributing offensively while providing a physical presence on the wing.

Why did the Panthers target him now?

Florida’s roster needs depth at the bottom six, especially after injuries to key forwards earlier this season. Imama’s size, combined with his modest scoring touch, offers a versatile option for head coach Paul Maurice’s third line or as a call‑up when the AHL affiliate needs reinforcement. His experience in both the NHL and AHL makes him a low‑risk addition.

How does his draft background fit the picture?

The forward was originally selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the sixth round, 180th overall, of the 2015 NHL Draft. Though he never suited up for the Lightning, the Panthers see value in a player drafted by a rival Florida franchise, hoping his development path can finally align with a stable NHL home.

What are the contract details?

The agreement is a one‑year, two‑way deal, meaning Imama will earn a different salary depending on whether he plays in the NHL or AHL. This structure gives the Panthers flexibility to move him between the roster and the affiliate without cap complications, while giving Imama a clear path to earn a full‑time spot.

What does this mean for the Panthers’ upcoming season?

Adding Imama gives Florida a physical forward who can protect the puck along the boards and chip in on the power play if needed. With the club hovering just above .500 and riding a three‑game win streak, the extra depth could help sustain momentum as the schedule tightens in the final months of the regular season.

Where can fans follow his progress?

Imama will report to the Panthers’ training camp in early September, where he’ll compete for a spot on the opening night roster. Fans can track his preseason performance on FloridaPanthers.com and catch him in action at Amerant Bank Arena if he earns a call‑up later in the year.