Sam Bennett, forward for the Florida Panthers, is expected to be a major name in the upcoming free agency period. After an impressive season where he tallied 51 points in 76 games and delivered 15 goals in the playoffs, Bennett played a critical role in helping Florida capture consecutive Stanley Cup titles.
With his four-year contract worth $17.7 million expiring, Bennett will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 unless he agrees to a contract extension with the Panthers beforehand. However, recent reports suggest the player’s choices may be more limited than anticipated.
Bennett’s Disinterest in Canadian Teams and Toronto in Particular
Despite being from Toronto and often linked to the Maple Leafs, Bennett is reportedly not considering any Canadian teams as options. NHL insider Andy Strickland stated,
“Hearing Toronto will not be on Sam Bennett’s list of free agent destinations, if unable to come to terms with Florida and he becomes a UFA,”
highlighting the forward’s intention to avoid returning home or even signing in his home country.
Adding to this perspective, Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects noted that although a return to Florida is not yet confirmed, Bennett seems to prefer remaining in the United States. Robinson posted,
“Lots of speculations that Sam Bennett re-signing in FLA is a foregone conclusion,”
then clarified,
“But I’m told the two sides haven’t talked extension in weeks. Teams continue to prepare sizeable offers should he make it to July 1st. Appears his preference is to stay in USA.”
Contract Expectations and Potential Future Moves
Projections from Daily Faceoff anticipate Bennett signing a six-year contract worth approximately $38.4 million, carrying an average annual cap hit of $6.4 million. While discussions have not advanced recently, several teams are expected to present competitive bids once he officially enters free agency.
The significance of Bennett’s decision lies in its potential impact on the Panthers’ roster stability and the broader free agency market. His inclination to stay in the U.S. could shape team strategies and contract offers around the league, particularly among American franchises keen to strengthen their forward lines.