Report: Panthers 'cooling' on Ladd as Jets seek 1st-rounder, top prospect

The Florida Panthers could use a boost up front, but the price to land one of the biggest potential trade-deadline commodities may be too steep.

The Panthers are "cooling" in their pursuit of Winnipeg Jets forward Andrew Ladd because the Jets are seeking a first-round draft pick and a top prospect in return, according to George Richards of The Miami Herald.

Ladd's a pending unrestricted free agent who carries a cap hit of $4.4 million. The Jets captain has improved his trade value lately, scoring four goals over the past three games.

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The 30-year-old would likely be a rental player, because barring a contract extension, he'll be a free agent at season's end.

Ladd has 17 goals and 17 assists in 59 games.