5 things you didn’t know about Seth Jones — the Florida Panthers’ playoff beast

If you've been watching the Stanley Cup Final, you’ve probably heard the name Seth Jones tossed around especially after NHL Network called him a “monster” on the ice. But who exactly is this towering defenseman now running the show for the Florida Panthers? Let’s break it down.Here are 5 must-know facts about Seth Jones, the NHL star turning heads with every playoff shift.

1. His dad played in the NBA and helped shape his discipline

Seth comes from serious athletic genes. His father is Popeye Jones, a former NBA player who spent over a decade in the league with teams like the Mavericks, Warriors, and Nuggets. But here’s the cool part: when young Seth showed interest in hockey instead of basketball, Popeye asked NHL pros for advice on how to help his son succeed in another pro sport.

That’s parenting on Hall of Fame mode.

2. He was once the most-hyped American defenseman in his draft class

Jones was a big deal before he ever played a second of NHL hockey. Leading up to the 2013 NHL Draft, he was projected to go No. 1 overall after a dominant season with the Portland Winterhawks and a gold medal with Team USA at the World Juniors. He ended up going 4th overall to the Nashville Predators, which surprised many but even then, everyone knew he had superstar potential.

3. He’s one of the highest-paid defensemen in the NHL

In 2021, while playing for the Chicago Blackhawks, Jones signed a massive 8-year, $76 million contract, making him one of the top-paid blue-liners in the league.

His average annual value is $9.5 million, and his current deal runs through the 2029–30 season. So yeah, he’s cashing playoff checks and long-term money.

4. He’s one of the few Black American stars in the NHL

Jones is part of a small but growing group of Black players making waves in professional hockey. He’s spoken openly about representation in the sport and has become a role model for young players of color who don’t often see themselves reflected on NHL rosters. His success is helping shift the game’s culture both on and off the ice.

5. He’s having a redemption arc moment with the Panthers

After getting traded from Chicago to Florida at the 2025 trade deadline, Jones has gone full beast mode. He’s leading the Panthers in minutes, scored a crucial Game 2 goal against Edmonton, and has become a defensive rock when it matters most.

Now, with a Stanley Cup run in full swing, Seth Jones is silencing critics and proving why he was so hyped in the first place.Whether you’re a longtime fan or just hearing about him for the first time, one thing’s clear: Seth Jones is having a moment. And if the Panthers go all the way, you’ll be hearing his name a lot more and not just from NHL Network.Also read - Brad Marchand’s mom goes viral after emotional reaction to his OT goal in Stanley Cup Final