The Florida Panthers reached the Stanley Cup Final for the third consecutive season with center Sam Bennett again playing a massive role. With Florida attempting to become the League’s newest dynasty, there have been questions about whether Bennett will even hit NHL free agency this summer.
James Mirtle of The Athletic writes that no one he’s spoken to around the League expects Bennett to be available this offseason, with a new deal likely to be worked out with Florida before he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
- Sam Bennett stats (2024-’25): 51 points (26 assists, 25 goals), 7 power-play goals, 4 game-winning goals, 10.4% shot rate, 46.2% faceoff rate, 145 hits, 45 blocks, 27 takeaways, 57 giveaways
Bennett, who turns 29 on June 20, is rated second in ESPN‘s rankings of the top NHL free agents behind Mitchell Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Chris Johnston of The Athletic also placed him second in his NHL free agency rankings. Both forwards were expected to be highly sought after, especially by clubs seeking veterans with ample playoff experience.
The difference between the two is that Bennett raises his game significantly during the postseason. After helping the Panthers win the Stanley Cup last spring, the gritty two-way pivot leads all players with 14 goals in these playoffs and is fifth overall with 20 points in 20 games, tops on the Panthers.
Equal parts will and skill, Bennett has scored in each game so far in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, totaling four goals. The Panthers lead the best-of-7 series 2-1 and host Game 4 on Thursday.
Related: Key takeaways from Game 3 of Stanley Cup Final after Oilers lose cool in 6-1 loss to Panthers
- Sam Bennett contract (PuckPedia): $4.425 million cap hit in 2025
Bennett’s salary this season ($4.425 million AAV) ranks 87th among centers. With the NHL salary cap increasing next season to $95.5 million, Bennett is expected to receive a deal worth at least $8 million annually. As of now, 29 centers carry an AAV of $8-plus million for the 2025-’26 campaign.
One thing Florida is likely aware of is the potential bidding war that Bennett’s camp can use as leverage in contract negotiations. TSN‘s Pierre LeBrun recently suggested there could be multiple teams willing to offer Bennett $10 million-plus annually if he reaches the open market.
Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad and winger Brad Marchand are also poised to become UFAs on July 1. Marchand has stated that he’s open to re-signing with Florida, but the club will likely prioritize Ekblad and Bennett following the Final.