Since joining the Florida Panthers in early 2021, Sam Bennett has transformed from a supporting player into a dependable top-six center and key contributor on special teams. The organization demonstrated strong confidence in him by quickly signing him to a four-year contract extension shortly after his arrival. Bennett’s 2024-25 season statistics highlight his growth, recording 25 goals, 26 assists, and accumulating 90 penalty minutes, reflecting both his skill and gritty style of play. This blend of toughness and talent has made him a standout figure within the team.
Bennett has also embraced life in Florida, expressing how comfortable he feels playing hockey there. He said,
“I never felt so comfortable in my life playing hockey. It’s sometimes odd to go to a new team and feel that comfortable right away, but everything was clicking. Right away I got the opportunity, the coaching staff believed in me, and then found some great chemistry with the players. I got to play with great players and that always helps. The early chemistry was amazing, and I think that really helped me build my confidence and helped me have the early success.”
—Sam Bennett, Florida Panthers Center
Contract Extension Talks Signal a Major Commitment
After several rumors suggested Bennett might be moving on from the Panthers, new information has surfaced indicating that both sides are negotiating a substantial contract extension. Insider David Pagnotta revealed on NHL Network that Bennett is essentially set to remain in Florida, with discussions focusing on a deal approximately eight years in length at $8 million per season. This potential contract, roughly doubling his current $4.425 million average annual value (AAV), would firmly establish him as a cornerstone for the franchise moving forward.
The value of this proposed agreement aligns with Bennett’s reputation as a playoff-tested, tenacious forward. Over 21 postseason games, he has contributed 14 goals and 21 points, demonstrating his ability to perform when it matters most. Florida’s favorable tax environment further supports the feasibility of this lucrative contract, offering the team increased salary cap flexibility to retain key players like Bennett.
This deal, if finalized, may become the Panthers’ most significant move in the upcoming offseason, cementing Bennett’s status as a pivotal figure in the team’s ambitions to contend consistently in the NHL.
Inside the Panthers’ Locker Room: Bennett Speaks About Team Chemistry
Prior to Game 4 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, Bennett opened up about the atmosphere within the Florida Panthers’ locker room, shedding light on the team’s unique culture. He noted,
“Yeah, I think that’s kind of just evolved over the years. I think we’ve gotten looser and looser in the locker room and just around the rink, and we’re a really close team. I mean, I know everyone says that, but we are, and I think we’ve just found that it works for us staying loose, cracking jokes, and just trying to be as relaxed as possible, and we have a lot of great leaders on this team that really make that easy, and yeah, that’s kind of just the approach that our team’s kind of just really evolved into.”
—Sam Bennett, Florida Panthers Center
This evolving locker room dynamic has become a vital element of the Panthers’ resilience during deep playoff runs. The team balances humor and camaraderie with strong leadership, creating an environment that alleviates pressure while keeping players focused. This approach has helped the Panthers remain composed amid the intensity of high-stakes hockey, contributing to their sustained success in both regular and postseason play.
Significance of the Potential Contract and Future Outlook
The potential $64 million contract extension under negotiation not only rewards Bennett’s playoff performance but also signals the Panthers’ long-term investment in him as a foundational player. His blend of skill, grit, and leadership qualities fits well with Florida’s strategic vision, especially as the team seeks to maintain its competitive edge in the NHL.
If completed, this extension would provide Bennett with security and motivation while giving the Panthers stability at an important position for years to come. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if this deal comes to fruition during the offseason and how it might impact the team’s roster construction moving forward.
Overall, Sam Bennett’s continued presence in Florida reflects a successful career revival and exemplifies how players and organizations can thrive when commitment, chemistry, and opportunity align.