Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Insider Drops Disappointing News for NHL Teams Eyeing Panthers' Sam Bennett

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jun 10, 2025 9:28 AM ET

The Florida Panthers have taken a 2-1 lead over the Edmonton Oilers in the Stanley Cup Final and are trying to win their second consecutive championship, but it's never too early to start planning what's next.

In a huge update for the reigning champions' fanbase, forward Sam Bennett is not expected to test NHL free agency this summer, according to a report by James Mirtle of The Athletic.

The Panthers and the veteran forward appear to have mutual interest in extending the relationship before the market opens July 1, when he is scheduled to hit free agency.

“No one I spoke to around the league expects Sam Bennett to be available,” Mirtle wrote. “He likes playing in Florida too much — and the feeling is mutual.”

Looking at the NHL rumour mill with free agency 3 weeks awayhttps://t.co/25yFJbrxh6
— James Mirtle (@mirtle) June 9, 2025

Bennett, 28, has 14 goals in the playoffs, including 12 on the road, setting a new NHL single-postseason road goal record and leading the field in goals scored.

The center's production has significantly raised his value heading into the final weeks of his current four-year contract, which carries a $4.425 million cap hit.

Projections of Bennett's new deal vary, but Mirtle reported that Bennett is expected to receive, "at minimum," at least $8 million annually on an eight-year deal.

According to PuckPedia, Florida has $19 million in projected cap space this offseason.

If Bennett signs at the $8 million level, the front office will retain roughly $11 million to fill three key roster spots: a top-pair defenseman, a backup goaltender, and a top-nine forward.

In any case, Mirtle seemed to confirm that Florida will prioritize re-signing Bennett to a long-term, properly valued deal before he gets to market.

“While he’s sure to generate lots of interest from other NHL teams,” Mirtle wrote, “he may decide to simply stay put with the Panthers.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: