SUNRISE, Fla. — Sam Bennett, the Florida Panthers’ Conn Smythe Trophy winner and dynamic center, announced his intention to stay with the team for eight years during a lively celebration at Club11 on Thursday night, basking in the glow of the Panthers’ second consecutive Stanley Cup victory. The 28-year-old forward, a cornerstone of Florida’s championship run, shared his excitement with fans, expressing his deep connection to the team and South Florida.
Bennett, who led the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs with an NHL-best 15 goals and 22 points, has been a driving force for the Panthers since joining in 2020. His relentless, physical style and knack for clutch scoring propelled Florida to a six-game triumph over the Edmonton Oilers in the Final. At Club11, surrounded by teammates and fans, Bennett declared his desire to remain a Panther, igniting cheers and fueling optimism for the franchise’s future.
Quite the surprise announcement, huh Panthers fans?
The projected eight-year deal, estimated at $60 million with an annual average of $7.5 million, reflects Bennett’s value to the Panthers, though he could likely command more on the open market. His decision to stay underscores his belief in the team’s championship potential and his comfort in Florida’s system. Despite interest from other NHL clubs, Bennett emphasized his loyalty to the Panthers, ruling out moves to other destinations.
With the Panthers facing salary cap constraints, Bennett’s willingness to sign a potentially team-friendly deal is a boon for general manager Bill Zito, who is tasked with retaining key players like Aaron Ekblad and Brad Marchand. Bennett’s playoff performance, including five goals in the Final, earned him the Conn Smythe as the postseason’s most valuable player, a historic first for a Panthers player. His chemistry with linemates and tenacious presence have cemented his role as a top-six center.
Coach Paul Maurice praised Bennett’s impact, noting his critical role in the team’s success. As the Panthers aim to build a dynasty, Bennett’s long-term commitment provides stability and a foundation for future titles. Negotiations are moving forward, with an official announcement expected soon. For now, Panthers fans can celebrate knowing their star center plans to call South Florida home for years to come.
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Oh and there’s this Game 7 thing going on too…
