A person with direct knowledge of the situation confirms to The Associated Press that free agent forward Brett Connolly is expected to sign with the Florida Panthers.

The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the NHL's free agency period doesn't open until Monday. Edmonton radio station CHED AM first reported the news Sunday night.

Connolly has eight seasons of NHL experience, and spent the past three with the Washington Capitals. He had a career-best 22 goals and 46 points in 81 games last season. Connolly also added six goals and nine points in helping the Capitals win the Stanley Cup a year ago.