Sam Reinhart wants to stay with Panthers past three-year deal?

On Wednesday, the Florida Panthers signed restricted free-agent forward Sam Reinhart to a three-year contract said to carry an average annual value of $6.5 million after landing him via a trade with the Buffalo Sabres on July 24. 

Reinhart said on Thursday he sees himself spending more than a trio of seasons with his new employer. 

"It's exciting and has that extra level of motivation, knowing the group of guys they have, knowing the talent level that's there and what they're setting out to do, what their goals are," Reinhart explained, per the NHL's website. "It's a great feeling and really refreshing coming into that mindset and I can't wait to do my part and fit into what they've already been building and hope to help put us over the top."

He continued about the contract: "I don't think I can stress enough that both parties are confident this is going to work out and ultimately be something longer than that. That's the plan for both of us. I think it's a great opportunity for me to get down, get familiar and start building in this win-now mentality that's been building for years. Hopefully this year and the next two in this deal, we can really reach our goals but it's something that we both envision can be a lot longer."

The 25-year-old led Buffalo with 25 goals and 40 points across 54 games for the 2020-21 season. In total, Reinhart has 134 goals and 161 assists in 454 career NHL regular-season contests.

Florida acquired Reinhart for goaltending prospect Devon Levi and a first-round selection in the 2022 NHL Draft.