One of the most intriguing names hitting NHL free agency this summer is Sam Bennett. The Florida Panthers’ hard-nosed center is set to test the open market, and multiple teams are already lining up to secure his services. While Bennett has never cracked the 50-point mark in his career, his unique combination of grit, faceoff prowess, and relentless style of play make him an extremely valuable asset.
Bennett is coming off a contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $4.425 million, but given his impact on the Panthers’ Stanley Cup Final run and his strong play at the 4 Nations Faceoff tournament, he is expected to land a significant raise in his next deal.
How Much Will Bennett Command in Free Agency?
TSN insider Darren Dreger recently appeared on TSN Radio 1050 to discuss Bennett’s market value and potential landing spots. According to Dreger, despite Bennett’s modest point totals, NHL general managers recognize the intangibles he brings—his fearless forechecking, ability to win key faceoffs, and willingness to go to the dirty areas of the ice. These attributes are highly coveted, especially by teams looking to make a deep playoff run.
Dreger predicts that Bennett’s next contract could fall in the range of $8-8.5 million AAV. Given the increasing demand for versatile two-way centers, this valuation makes sense. Bennett’s playoff performances alone justify a substantial payday, as he consistently elevates his game when it matters most.
Which Teams Are in the Mix for Bennett?
According to Dreger, the two teams most likely to aggressively pursue Bennett are the Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs. Both clubs are looking to add depth at center and bring more physicality to their lineups.
- Edmonton Oilers: The Oilers are in win-now mode with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl at their peak. Adding Bennett would give them a tough, defensively responsible center who could play in all situations. His ability to handle tough matchups would allow Edmonton to roll out more balanced forward lines.
- Toronto Maple Leafs: The Leafs have been searching for a rugged, playoff-ready center to complement Auston Matthews. Bennett’s blend of skill and physicality would provide Toronto with a much-needed edge, particularly in the postseason, where they’ve struggled in past years.
Of course, other teams could enter the mix depending on cap space and roster needs, but right now, Edmonton and Toronto seem to be the front-runners.
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