Sam Bennett's Big-Money New Contract in Florida Torn Apart By Analysts

Sam Bennett signed a huge new deal with the Florida Panthers, but even after winning two Cups, it has been heralded as one of the worst contracts in the NHL by The Athletic.

The Florida Panthers built one of the most dominant teams in the NHL in recent years, and given all of the depth and the production they got out of underpaid players, it's easy to see why they've won back-to-back Stanley Cups.

However, some players contracts ran out this summer, meaning the team would now have to pay them what they're worth, including Sam Bennett, who inked an eight-year deal with the team with an $8 million AAV in that time.

The deal was a huge one for the veteran forward, keeping him in Florida likely for the rest of his career, and while many could consider it an overpay for his regular season production, given what he brings in the post-season, it's a deal the Panthers are happy to make.

That deal was ripped apart recently by The Athletic however, as their model ranks this as the eighth worst contract in the National Hockey League, noting that the numbers just don't add up to the value he gives his team.