Sam Bennett’s outstanding playoff performance this season has thrust him into the spotlight as a key figure ahead of the NHL free agency period starting July 1. Leading the postseason with 15 goals, Bennett’s potential NHL free agent landing spots are generating intense speculation about where his gritty style and clutch scoring could have the most impact.
As the Florida Panthers edge closer to another Stanley Cup title, Bennett’s future beyond South Florida is uncertain but crucial for teams eager to alter the Stanley Cup race. Here are six NHL teams that appear most likely to pursue the veteran forward, each offering a unique fit for his skill set and competitive approach.
Why Staying with the Florida Panthers Remains the Most Likely Outcome
Bennett’s role in the Florida Panthers’ success cannot be overstated. Having been acquired from Calgary, he has become integral to Florida’s repeated trips to the Stanley Cup Final, including their imminent chance at a second consecutive championship. His regular-season contributions were notable, scoring 25 goals this year compared to his career-high 28 the previous season, while his playoff tally of 15 goals this year, and 27 in the last three postseasons combined, highlights his consistency on hockey’s biggest stage.
Florida recognizes Bennett’s rare combination of clutch scoring and physical play, qualities that defy simple statistics but greatly influence the Panthers’ performance. While other teams may offer lucrative contracts, the organization’s commitment to retaining Bennett is strong, with estimated chances around 90 percent that he remains a Panther unless there’s a dramatic turnaround in the Finals.
Toronto Maple Leafs: A High-Stakes Pursuit to Overcome Past Playoff Heartbreak
The Toronto Maple Leafs have faced repeated postseason heartbreak, including multiple eliminations by Bennett’s Panthers. Their pursuit of him would serve as both a strategic and symbolic response. Toronto’s general manager Brad Treliving, who originally drafted Bennett in Calgary and later traded him to Florida, is now in a position to negotiate returning the winger to the Canadian franchise.
Despite potentially high costs, Toronto could reallocate funds by letting star players like Mitch Marner or John Tavares leave during free agency. Adding Bennett would address a critical need in their lineup for grit and playoff experience. If Bennett does not re-sign with Florida, the Maple Leafs are expected to aggressively pursue him, signaling a major shift in their team identity and approach to power play and defensive engagement.
Utah Mammoth: A Bold Contender Ready to Invest in Experience
The Utah Mammoth stand out as an emerging contender in the Western Conference, boasting promising young talents such as Dylan Guenther, Logan Cooley, Clayton Keller, and Mikhail Sergachev. To challenge established heavyweights, the Mammoth need seasoned players like Bennett who bring toughness and playoff experience to a developing core.
With an estimated $20 million in salary cap space, Utah has the financial flexibility to pursue Bennett’s services, despite the hefty $8 million to $10 million annual contract he may command. Signing Bennett would signify a maturation of the franchise’s ambitions, positioning them to contend more seriously in the coming seasons by blending youthful skill with veteran leadership.
Vancouver Canucks: Attempting to Rebuild Through Strategic Depth Additions
Last season’s turmoil involving J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson left the Vancouver Canucks struggling yet still competitive for playoff qualification. Seeking stability and depth, they could view Bennett as a valuable acquisition to boost their middle lineup and bring a physical edge. Vancouver’s financial flexibility improved after trading Miller, enabling them to consider adding a tough center like Bennett.
Pettersson’s return to form and contributions from centers Filip Chytil, Teddy Blueger, and Max Sasson are promising, but Bennett’s veteran presence and aggressive style could invigorate the team’s competitiveness. While adding Bennett makes sense on paper, the practicality depends on Vancouver’s salary cap priorities and Bennett’s willingness to join a rebuilding team.
Buffalo Sabres: A Risky, Yet Potentially Transformative Signing
The Buffalo Sabres present a complicated option for Bennett, mixing potential roster uncertainty with organizational challenges. Roster questions about JJ Peterka, Alex Tuch, and Bo Byram create an unpredictable offseason, while the Sabres strive to make the playoffs for the first time since 2011. Bennett’s toughness and championship mentality would supply a much-needed spark.
Historically, owner Terry Pegula’s cautious approach to free agency has limited extravagant signings since the high-profile, ultimately disappointing Ville Leino contract in 2011. The Sabres possess cap space to make a big offer, but convincing Bennett to join a team still seeking stability remains unlikely. While the added leadership could aid the young roster, the financial and competitive risk of signing Bennett may outweigh potential rewards.
Winnipeg Jets: Strategically Adding Firepower to a Strong Contender
The Winnipeg Jets have typically been conservative in free agency, yet the expansion of their salary cap space—estimated at about $26.4 million—creates an opportunity to pursue high-impact players like Bennett. Despite uncertainties surrounding UFAs Nikolaj Ehlers and restricted free agents Gabe Vilardi and Dylan Samberg, the Jets have an established core to complement adding Bennett.
Center depth remains a weakness behind top forwards Mark Scheifele and Adam Lowry, with Vladimir Namestnikov and Morgan Barron offering limited support. Bennett’s signing would inject intensity and scoring touch, further solidifying a Presidents’ Trophy-winning team’s Stanley Cup aspirations. The Jets would carry substantial financial responsibility, but Bennett’s addition could tip the scales in a tightly contested Western Conference battle.
In summary, Sam Bennett’s playoff heroics have placed him at the center of free agency discussions that could reshape NHL playoff dynamics. Whether he remains a Florida Panther or moves to franchises like Toronto, Utah, Vancouver, Buffalo, or Winnipeg, his combination of gritty play and clutch scoring is highly sought after. Each destination carries its own blend of opportunity and risk, with implications for the teams’ trajectories and the wider race for hockey’s ultimate prize.