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Sam Bennett's Next Team and Blockbuster Contract 'Pretty Much Locked' Per David Pagnotta

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 12:02 PM ET

NHL insider David Pagnotta has revealed that Sam Bennett and the Panthers are pretty much locked in on signing a new 8X8 contract extension.

A new update has emerged between the Florida Panthers and the potential contract extension of one of their stars, Sam Bennett, who is expected to become a free agent ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season. Bennett has a contract that expires on June 30.

It's clear that the Panthers currently have more pressing concerns, as they are in the midst of the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers, a series currently tied 2-2 in which Bennett has been a major player.

Meanwhile, the offseason is approaching, and key decisions await Florida, including the potential extension of Bennett, especially after Brad Marchand's departure seems almost a certainty to occur.

The Panthers want to keep their star forward, as they do not want to risk losing two of their very valuable players.

Bennett is closing in on signing a $64 million contract with Florida

According to NHL insider David Pagnotta of NHL Network, Florida is close to retaining one of their best players, Bennett, beyond this season.

'Sam Bennett is pretty much locked in to stay in Florida; deal around 8x8 being discussed.'
- David Pagnotta

Negotiations between the Panthers and Bennett were already underway and are progressing very positively, it seems.

Florida sees Bennett as a valuable part of their competitive core, and it is crucial for them to keep him. This is made easier by the fact that Bennett also wants to stay in South Florida.

While both sides have made it clear they want the deal to happen, there are a few obstacles delaying an extension from happening imminently.

The Panthers are dealing with a very tight salary cap, which could make it hard to offer Bennett the salary that other teams might be willing to pay, and what he feels he truly deserves, if he enters free agency.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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