3 Potential Trade Destinations for Panthers' Sam Bennett

According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, the Florida Panthers are a team to watch leading up to the 2023 trade deadline. The Panthers are trying to create some financial flexibility and could be in the market to move a couple of their key players. For this piece, let's zone in on Sam Bennett and examine a few potential trade destinations for the 26-year-old:

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins have been trying for weeks to make a trade and so far, no dance partners have been located. The Pens can afford Bennett's contract moving forward and have some assets they can move, including young defensemen. Pittsburgh has been looking to upgrade down the middle and Bennett could be the perfect compliment to Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

Colorado Avalanche

A team loaded with young defensemen, the Avs and Panthers could be a trade match. The Avalanche have a need down the middle and have Samuel Girard or Bowen Byram who could be in play here. Cap space is an issue as Bennett makes $4.6 million against the cap. A third-party broker could be needed to finalize any move between these two clubs.

Washington Capitals

The Capitals are looking for help up front and could see Bennett as a fit. Him playing alongside Tom Wilson could cause other teams fits and be the type of shut-down line needed for Stanley Cup Playoff success. The Caps recently welcomed back Niklas Backstrom to the team after a long absence due to a lower-body injury, they will monitor his health and it will have a direct impact on their trade targets.