In a move that has electrified the Florida Panthers fanbase and sent waves throughout the NHL, the team has officially secured the services of Conn Smythe Trophy winner Sam Bennett for years to come. After weeks of anxious speculation about his future, Panthers supporters can finally breathe a sigh of relief as Bennett’s contract extension is now signed and sealed. The dynamic forward, who led all players in postseason goals and shattered records along the way, has chosen to stay in Florida, reaffirming his commitment to a club that has quickly become a powerhouse in the league.

With his remarkable playoff performance still fresh in the minds of fans and teammates alike, Bennett’s decision signals not only his belief in the Panthers’ championship ambitions but also the appeal of life both on and off the ice in South Florida. As the team looks ahead to another promising campaign, the return of Bennett ensures that the Panthers’ core remains intact, setting the stage for more unforgettable moments and the pursuit of even greater glory.

Photo credit: NHL.com

The Florida Panthers have officially brought back Conn Smythe Trophy winning forward Sam Bennet, who has his new contract and avoids hitting the open market.

Fans of the Florida Panthers who were worried about Conn Smythe Trophy winner leaving in free agency have had their fears put to rest.

The Panthers have officially announced a contract extension for Bennett, keeping him with the club for the next several years.

Bennett led all NHL players with 15 goals in the postseason, including 13 of them away from Amerant Bank Arena ice, setting a new postseason record.

Bennett, who began his NHL career with the Calgary Flames but was acquired by the Panthers in a trade in 2022, explained recently that he had 3 priorities upon his arrival in Florida.

No. 1, where can I win? Here. No. 2: Where can I make the most money? That was also here. No. 3 was life outside of the rink, where was the best place to be? And that’s pretty obvious. Down here is No. 1 in the League. So that was my list. And I have a feeling that’s probably pretty much common for a lot of players.

Bennett’s teammate Matthew Tkachuk also recently expressed his hope that Florida’s pending UFA players got hefty financial guarantees with their new deals while also saying he’d love it if it were with the Panthers.

So it’s time to cash in for some of those boys. And hopefully, it’s here. If not, it is what it is, but I’m so happy for them. And whatever happens, happens. But if they’re gone, we’re going to be champions and walk together forever.

Tkachuk is getting his wish with Bennett, as they’ll continue as teammates for many more years to come.