Panthers to buy out contract of Jovanovski

Florida Panthers defenseman Ed Jovanovski (55) celebrates with goalie Roberto Luongo (1) after the Panthers defeated the Ottawa Senators 3-2 in a shootout during an NHL hockey game, Tuesday, March 25, 2014 in Sunrise, Fla. (Wilfredo Lee/AP)

Ed Jovanovski’s days as a Florida Panther have come to an end.

The Panthers captain was placed on unconditional waivers Sunday for the purpose of being bought out. The 38-year-old defenceman had one year remaining on his deal with a cap hit of $4.125 million.

Jovanovski, who was drafted by the Panthers first overall in 1994, was limited to 37 games due to hip surgery last season and struggled upon his return.

The Windsor, Ont., native played seven of his 18 NHL seasons with the Panthers. He had stints with the Phoenix Coyotes and Vancouver Canucks before signing a four-year deal with the Panthers in 2011.

In 1,128 games, Jovanovski has 138 goals, 500 points and 1,491 penalty minutes.

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