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Florida Panthers Target Extension for Playoff Star Sam Bennett

His league-leading playoff performance has boosted his market value, prompting the Panthers to leverage Florida’s tax-free environment in new contract talks.

Overview

  • Sam Bennett leads the NHL playoffs with 14 goals in 20 games, cementing his status as a Conn Smythe contender.
  • His four-year, $4.4 million AAV contract expires July 1, making him an unrestricted free agent this off-season.
  • General manager Bill Zito can leverage Florida’s tax-free environment and rising salary cap to offer Bennett a longer, competitive extension.
  • League insiders expect Bennett to re-sign with Florida despite speculation of a $10 million annual salary.
  • Brad Marchand and Aaron Ekblad have also climbed TSN’s top-50 UFA rankings after standout playoff runs, underscoring broader retention challenges for the Panthers.