Sam Bennett has timed his breakout perfectly. The Florida Panthers forward is delivering one of the strongest playoff performances of his career, and with unrestricted free agency just weeks away, he’s becoming one of the most talked-about names on the market.
Utah Reportedly Ready to Make Big Free Agent Splash
According to The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun, the Utah Mammoth are shaping up as one of the top contenders to land the 28-year-old if he doesn’t re-sign in Florida. LeBrun noted that Utah is “looking to take a big swing” this summer and has identified Bennett as a prime target if he becomes available.
The Panthers are still considered the favorite to retain him, especially given his role in helping them push for back-to-back Stanley Cup titles. But Florida has tough choices to make. Bennett isn’t the only high-profile free agent on their radar, as Aaron Ekblad and Brad Marchand also need new deals. If space runs out, Bennett could be the one to walk.
Utah didn’t waste time making waves in its debut NHL season. The newly formed Mammoth franchise turned heads in 2024–25, coming close to a playoff berth. Now, the focus shifts to upgrading the roster, and Bennett could be the centerpiece of that effort.
The fit makes sense. Utah wants playoff-caliber players, and Bennett has shown that he thrives when the stakes are highest. With 15 goals in 22 playoff games this spring, he’s been a major force for the Panthers.
Sam Bennett – Florida Panthers (15)* pic.twitter.com/bvgkS394VT
— NHL Goal Videos (@NHLGoalVideos) June 15, 2025
Bennett isn’t your typical 80-point forward, but that’s not what teams like Utah are after. They want the guy who shows up when it matters most. With consistent 20-goal seasons and an ability to wear down opponents with his relentless style, Bennett could be the tone-setter Utah needs.
The Mammoth also have the cap space to make a serious offer. With speculation that Bennett could command north of $7 million per year, and possibly more if a bidding war breaks out, Utah is in a position to strike. LeBrun’s report confirms they’re ready to spend.
Sam Bennett’s Journey to Becoming a Playoff Hero
Bennett’s road to this moment hasn’t been without bumps. Drafted fourth overall by Calgary in 2014, he was seen as a franchise cornerstone. But he struggled to find consistency with the Flames, eventually becoming a trade chip in 2021.
Florida offered a fresh start, and Bennett grabbed it. He immediately clicked with the Panthers’ aggressive, high-paced system and has since carved out a key role in their playoff runs. While Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk draw the spotlight, Bennett does the dirty work that often swings series.
He’s now a legitimate Conn Smythe candidate and one of the most valuable playoff performers in the league. Whether that leads to a new deal in Florida or a fresh chapter in Utah remains to be seen.
