NHL Rumors: Top Contender Emerges for Sam Bennett in Free Agency

As the Florida Panthers battle to become the first back-to-back Stanley Cup champions since the Tampa Bay Lightning, forward Sam Bennett is playing a key role in their playoff push. However, with Bennett entering the final year of his contract, speculation is already heating up about his future in free agency.

According to Sportsnet’s Pat Steinberg, the Calgary Flames could make a strong push to bring Bennett back if he hits the open market this offseason.

“I do think if Sam Bennett becomes available in unrestricted free agency, the Flames will go hard after him,” Steinberg said on the Flames Talk podcast. “I believe they’ll present one of the best offers and try to convince him to return to Calgary.”

Bennett’s Career Resurgence in Florida

Originally drafted fourth overall by Calgary in 2014, Bennett spent seven seasons with the Flames before being traded to Florida in 2021. Since joining the Panthers, he has thrived, posting four straight 40-plus-point seasons. This year, he set career highs in points (51), assists (26), and power-play goals (7).

His playoff performance has been particularly impressive. During Florida’s 2023 Stanley Cup run, Bennett ranked fifth in goals (7) and tied for fourth in power-play assists (3). His clutch play has made him one of the most sought-after pending free agents, with The Athletic ranking him second in its NHL free agency rankings in April.

Contract Outlook and Potential Suitors

Bennett, who turns 29 in June, carries a $4.425 million cap hit this season and is projected to command a long-term deal—possibly up to seven years—in free agency. While the Panthers remain the favorites to re-sign him, the lack of an extension at this stage suggests he could test the market.

If that happens, Calgary appears ready to make a serious bid. Having already seen Bennett develop into a key contributor elsewhere, the Flames may look to reunite with the versatile forward to bolster their lineup.

As the playoffs unfold, Bennett’s focus remains on helping Florida chase another championship. But once the offseason arrives, his next destination could become one of the biggest storylines in NHL free agency.

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