NHL Free Agency: Insider Rules Out 7 Teams From Sam Bennett Chase

Tuesday, March 18, 2025 ,


We heard earlier this week that one of the top pending free agents this summer, Sam Bennett, has begun negotiations with the Florida Panthers on a new contract. But if he does reach the open market on July 1st, an insider has ruled out seven teams that he says Bennett would not sign with. 

"Bennett, if he gets to UFA, is not signing with the Maple Leafs," declared Andy Strickland on the Cam & Strick Podcast, "and I don't think he'll sign with a Canadian team, from what I understand... He ain't signing in Canada...I have nothing against Canada...(but) Not happening."

When the Panthers rolled into Scotiabank Arena last week, the Toronto-area born Bennett gushed about playing in his hometown, and how much he loved it, which of course, got some Leafs fans dreaming of what a tremendous fit he would be for the team. But, according to Strickland, that's likely just wishful thinking. 

"I've said from the beginning that his best option is to stay in Florida," Strickland added. "They value him, it's completely changed his career, his life, ... like he is a Florida Panther. I want to see him play with (Brad) Marchand beyond this season."

At the same time, that being said, Strickland doesn't feel that doing an extension right now is the best idea for Bennett, either.

"If I were him, I wouldn't re-sign (with Florida) now. I would go to the market and see what my value is and then come back."

It's expected to take anywhere north of $7 million, perhaps even $8 million per year to get a long-term deal done with the feisty, physical two-way center. 

Through 66 games, Bennett currently has 22 goals and 45 points, on pace for a career high in the latter.  

Photo: © Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

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