Sam Bennett was spectacular for the Florida Panthers during their Stanley Cup championship run this spring. In 23 games, the 2014 fourth-overall pick scored an NHL-leading 15 goals and recorded 22 points. Due to his excellent play, he was named this year's Conn Smythe Trophy winner as playoff MVP.
Now, after his dominant post-season, Bennett is preparing for a massive summer. The 28-year-old center is due for his next contract and can become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. However, there is no question that the Panthers are going to work as hard as they can to try to keep him in Florida.
However, if Bennett decides to test the free-agent market this summer, there will undoubtedly be a ton of interest in his services. This is because he is a top-six center who not only contributes offensively but also plays a very gritty game. Furthermore, his immense playoff success obviously adds to his appeal.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are one team that have discussed as a potential suitor for Bennett if he hits the market on July 1. However, a recent update makes the possibility of that occurring appear unlikely.
According to FanDuel Sports Network's Andy Strickland, the Maple Leafs would not be on Bennett's list of potential free-agent landing spots if he elects to test the market.
It is certainly encouraging to hear that the Maple Leafs, one of the Panthers' biggest rivals, are not expected to steal Bennett away if he becomes a free agent. If Bennett were to join the Maple Leafs, it would undoubtedly be a massive blow, especially when noting that he would stay in their division.
However, if Bennett signs with any other team besides the Panthers this summer, it would still be terrible news for Florida. Due to this, re-signing him should be their biggest priority between now and the start of next month. Let's see if they can do just that from here.
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