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Bruins fans on edge as Sam Bennett’s future takes intriguing turn

Originally posted on Bruins After Dark | By Jake Donovan | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 1:04 AM ET

Sam Bennett no longer in Bruins’ plans as free agent center leans toward staying in Florida.

The Boston Bruins hoped to land Sam Bennett this summer, but the veteran forward is now expected to remain in Florida, shutting down a potential move to Boston.

The Bruins had Sam Bennett on their radar.

That much was clear.

Coming off a season that left them buried in the standings, Boston was expected to swing big this summer. They need help — especially down the middle. Bennett fit the mold: physical, experienced, and a proven playoff presence.

But according to a recent report, the Bruins are out.

Bennett makes Florida his top priority

NHL insider David Pagnotta dropped the update, cutting through speculation with one simple line:

Sam Bennett’s preference is to stay in Florida.

David Pagnotta: Sam Bennett's preference is to stay in Florida – The Fourth Period
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) June 2, 2025

That alone changes the equation. The Bruins, who’ve been searching for the kind of edge Bennett brings, may now have to pivot, as the 28-year-old forward appears focused on running it back with the Panthers.

Bruins’ offseason goals just got tougher

This isn’t just about missing one player. It’s about timing.

The Bruins are trying to retool quickly, and a player like Bennett could’ve been a cornerstone piece in that transition.

He’s got bite, he plays through pain, and he shows up when it matters, all things Boston desperately lacked last season.

After trading away Brad Marchand, Charlie Coyle, and Trent Frederic at the deadline, the Bruins are facing a major identity shift.

A guy like Bennett would’ve brought some of that edge back.

Could things change? Maybe.

Free agency is unpredictable.

Sometimes talks fall apart. Sometimes teams overpay.

If Florida slips, Boston could circle back in a heartbeat. But right now, the writing’s on the wall. Bennett wants to stay where he is. And for the Bruins, that’s one less option in a shrinking field of available forwards.

This article first appeared on Bruins after dark and was syndicated with permission.

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