Former NHL player and current TNT analyst Paul Bissonnette has come to the defense of Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett, who is reportedly seeking a $10 million annual contract. B
issonnette’s outspoken support follows Bennett’s consistent standout performances in the 2025 NHL Playoffs so far, having played an instrumental role in the Panthers’ postseason success.
Sam Bennett’s Playoff Performance Bolsters Contract Talks
In a tweet, Bissonnette addressed critics questioning Bennett’s contract demands:
“I find it weird, though, that some people on this app think Sam Bennett making 10 million is insane and that it’s an overpayment. Are you stupid??? He’s leading the NHL in playoff goals. He’s been a factor in every series. I don’t give a flying f*** what your chart says.”
I find it weird though that some people on this app think Sam Bennett making 10 million is insane and that it’s an overpayment. Are you stupid??? He’s leading the NHL in playoff goals. He’s been a factor in every series. I don’t give a flying fuck what your chart says.
— Paul Bissonnette (@BizNasty2point0) May 27, 2025
Bennett’s playoff statistics support Bissonnette’s defense. He has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 15 playoff games so far, tying him for the league lead in postseason goals. His physical play has also been notable, with 78 hits recorded during the playoffs, ranking him second among all players.
In the regular season, Bennett tallied 25 goals and 26 assists over 76 games, marking his highest points total since joining the Panthers.
Bennett is currently in the final year of a four-year, $17.7 million contract he signed in 2021, carrying a $4.425 million cap hit. That deal expires on July 1, and early reports suggest the Panthers are interested in retaining him, potentially with an offer in the $6–7 million range, mirroring recent extensions for similar-impact players.
Still, Bennett’s postseason showing may push that figure higher. His ability to score timely goals, absorb contact, and lead by example makes him a highly attractive asset in the current free-agent market.
Potential Suitors for Sam Bennett and Free Agency Outlook
One team that’s popped up in connection with Bennett is the Toronto Maple Leafs, and it’s not hard to see why. He’s an Ontario native, and the Leafs could use a little more playoff bite in their top six.
But there’s a snag. Toronto’s budget is already tight, and making room for a player in Bennett’s price range would likely require some tough roster decisions.
NHL insider John Shannon recently suggested that Bennett may ultimately choose between staying in Florida or returning to his home province, noting:
“Don’t waste your time, he’s going to play in one of two places: he’s going to play in Toronto or he’s going to play in Sunrise, Florida, that’s it.”
As the Panthers continue their playoff push, Bennett’s value only seems to rise. Whether Florida locks him up long-term or he hits the open market in July, he’s positioned to cash in.
