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The Vancouver Canucks will be forced to look elsewhere as the Florida Panthers have announced a long-term contract extension for Sam Bennett on Friday afternoon.In the last few weeks, the Vancouver Canucks have been linked to a number of players some of which have already been trading including Trevor Zegras to the Philadelphia Flyers and Charlie Coyle to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
As Patrik Allvin continues to evaluate the team’s options, it appears that another potential target is now off the board, leaving Canucks management to search elsewhere.
Florida Panthers lock up Sam Bennett to long-term contract extension
Shortly before the start of the 2025 National Hockey League Entry Draft, the Florida Panthers announced that they’ve agreed to terms on an eight-year contract extension worth $64 million US ($8 million AAV).
“Florida Panthers President of Hockey Operations & General Manager Bill Zito announced today that the club has agreed to terms with forward Sam Bennett on an eight-year contract extension.” the Panthers said.
Panthers General Manager Bill Zito was very excited with Sam Bennett’s decision to remain with the club, where he’s won two Stanley Cups and a Conn Smythe Trophy, rather than hitting the open market on Canada Day.
Sam is a special player who has mastered a unique blend of skill and physicality in his game, becoming one of the most impactful postseason performers of his generation. He played an integral role in our two Stanley Cup championships, earning the franchise’s first Conn Smythe Trophy and is a dedicated contributor to our South Florida community off the ice. We are thrilled that he will continue his career with the Panthers.” Florida Panthers General Manager Bill Zito said.
Bennett, a native of East Gwillimbury, Ontario, appeared in 76 games during the regular season with the Panthers where he put up 51 points (25 goals, 26 assists), 90 penalty minutes and was a minus-15.
In the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Bennett took his game to an entirely new level, registering 22 points (15 goals, seven assists) in 23 contests, earning him, as mentioned, the Conn Smythe Trophy as postseason MVP.
Now that Bennett is off the board, some other options for the Vancouver Canucks include Nick Bjugstad (UFA), Jared McCann of the Seattle Kraken and Mikael Grandlund (UFA).
Previously on CanucksDaily