Sam Bennett has become quite the figure in the NHL, dividing opinions across the league. Down in Florida, the Panthers and their fans are all in on Bennett, while he’s managed to ruffle some feathers elsewhere.
The reason is simple: Bennett’s got speed, skill, and a Stanley Cup ring to back it up. He’s not one to shy away from a skirmish, which keeps him far from Lady Byng Trophy contention.
In the eyes of several general managers counting down to the summer of 2025, Bennett is a prime candidate for beefing up their team’s physicality—unless, of course, the Panthers lock him in with an extension before July 1 rolls around.
When Bennett landed in sunny South Florida after being shipped at the trade deadline four seasons ago, the change was a game-changer. His time with the Calgary Flames didn’t quite match the hype of his top-5 draft pick status, but with the Panthers, he’s found his stride.
A stellar performance of 20 points in 15 games, postseason included, earned Bennett a four-year contract under GM Bill Zito. The productive streak didn’t stop there; Bennett has since delivered two seasons with 20+ goals and hit the 40-point mark for three consecutive years.
This season is no exception, but the postseason is where Bennett’s heroics truly shine. In 54 playoff matchups sporting the Panthers jersey, he’s racked up 37 points, with 14 of those being goals.
Whether orchestrating key plays or adding some on-ice grit, Bennett is the embodiment of Florida Panthers hockey—a sentiment echoed repeatedly by head coach Paul Maurice.
As the Panthers gear up for yet another deep playoff haul, fans can’t help but wonder, just how much is Bennett worth? The buzz isn’t just confined to South Florida; hockey insiders indicate that NHL front offices are keeping a close eye on the Bennett saga.
While trade speculation always looms, the Panthers sitting near the top of the conference suggest Zito won’t part with such a key player. The memory of unexpected trades, like that of Mikko Rantanen from Colorado, keeps the doors to possibility ajar.
Priority number one for the Panthers seems to be securing Bennett for the long haul. However, that’s easier said than done.
The Panthers have some cap room—$23 million for the next season—but other commitments, like retaining Aaron Ekblad, play a part in the financial puzzle. Youngster Anton Lundell seems poised to step up, possibly taking Bennett’s spot should he leave, allowing the Panthers to redirect funds toward bolstering their defense with needed right-handed talent.
If Bennett does hit the open market, expect a flurry of teams vying for his signature. Championship-contending teams like Carolina, Dallas, and Toronto, all with the financial wiggle room, could make enticing offers if Bennett craves another shot at Stanley Cup glory. On the other hand, organizations like Winnipeg, San Jose, and Chicago might offer lucrative contracts to lure him purely based on financial terms.
Considering the cap space set to rise for the 2025-26 season, Bennett’s prospects for a hefty contract look promising. With the NHL’s market heated up and heightened competition for a player of Bennett’s ilk, it puts pressure on the Panthers to decide wisely. The league average for a second-line center stands at around $4.7 million, but for top contending teams, that figure climbs higher, somewhere around $5.3 million to $6.9 million for seasoned playmakers—reflective of Bennett’s prime years.
The conversation about Bennett’s salary has long centered around the $7 million mark. Given his role and contributions to keeping Florida in championship conversations, it seems reasonable for both Bennett’s camp and the Panthers. He might not have the offensive clout of big names like Tavares or Draisaitl, but his all-around impact is undeniable, making him an invaluable asset on the ice.
The upcoming offseason could well set the scene for Bennett’s next chapter, whether that unfolds in Florida colors or elsewhere. Fans should brace themselves for an intriguing showdown as the franchise juggles with cap management and roster ambitions, with Bennett at the centerpiece of it all.
