Stanley Cup Surge Boosts Bennett’s Stock
Florida Panthers center Sam Bennett is on fire. With 13 goals in just 19 playoff games, he’s emerged as the unstoppable force powering Florida’s title defense in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final. But while the goals and hits rack up, so does the speculation—especially with his contract expiring. Could his postseason dominance demand a $10 million-a-year payday?
Bieksa and Bissonnette Weigh In
On the *Spittin’ Chiclets* podcast, former NHLer Kevin Bieksa and host Paul Bissonnette dove straight into the money talk. “Would you pay him $10 million a year?” Bissonnette asked. Bieksa, while skeptical of that figure, made it clear: “You don’t need to pay him that to keep him here.” Still, both agreed—Florida is where Bennett belongs.
From Calgary Castoff to Florida’s Hero
Since joining the Panthers in 2021, Bennett has transformed his game. Regular season production is solid, but in the playoffs, he turns elite. Over the past three postseasons, Bennett has delivered 25 goals and 48 points in just 55 games—top-15 playoff stats without significant power-play time.
Built for the Big Stage
Brad Marchand praised Bennett’s gritty game, saying, “He lives in the dirty areas… he’s been an animal this whole playoffs.” That fearlessness was on full display with a devastating hit on Vasily Podkolzin followed by a highlight-reel breakaway goal. It’s not just points—it’s presence.
Panthers Coach Paul Maurice Has His Say
“He’s got a horrible attitude,” joked Maurice, brushing off trade rumors with a grin. “But he doesn’t cheat the game… He’s underperked.” Translation: Bennett’s value isn’t in flashy stats—it’s in clutch performance, leadership, and consistent grit.
Is $10 Million Too Much?
Kevin Bieksa says playoff performance should weigh more in player evaluations: “Who cares if you get 60 points in the regular season? Did you show up in the playoffs?” With that logic, Bennett might not just be worth more—he might redefine contract valuation altogether.
What’s Next?
As July 1 approaches, Florida must decide: extend Bennett at a premium, or risk losing their playoff engine to the open market. Either way, Sam Bennett has proven one thing—he’s built for the postseason, and that kind of magic doesn’t come cheap.