Sam Bennett Trade Deadline Status: Teams Keep Asking Panthers

According to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos, the Florida Panthers might consider trading Sam Bennett before the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline. Kypreos has added Bennett to his updated trade bait board, citing a lack of production since the start of December as the reason he could be dealt. While it seems unlikely, the Panthers could conceivably trade Bennett if they receive a substantial offer.

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Kypreos writes:

“Teams continually ask about him and he has a unique style that elevates in the playoffs. Bennett was an important factor in Florida’s Stanley Cup win last season and its run to the final two years ago. There’s no question he has value around the league so, until the Panthers sign him or definitively say they’re not trading him, he’ll stay on my list.”

How Likely Is a Bennett Trade?

A trade involving Bennett doesn’t seem very likely, but it isn’t impossible. Bennett has been a valuable player for the Panthers since joining the club in 2021. The concern arises if his offensive struggles continue, as it could lead to growing frustration. If that frustration boils over, it might result in more penalties or even suspensions, which could hurt the team and lead to whispers that the Panthers could trade Bennett.

The most plausible scenario in which Florida trades Bennett would involve receiving a high-impact player in return—someone who can immediately improve their chances of winning. That said, Bennett’s real value lies in his playoff performance. He is the type of player who elevates his game in the postseason, making him highly sought after by teams with Stanley Cup aspirations.

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Kypreos noted that Florida understands his contract demands. They’re also aware of the price someone will likely pay on the open market as an unrestricted free agent this summer being more than what they think they can pay him.

What Teams Make Sense?

Bennett has no trade protection in his contract, meaning the Panthers can trade him to any team. However, playoff-bound teams would likely be most interested in acquiring him, which increases the odds the Panthers could start a bidding war for his services.

Teams that could show interest include:

• Toronto Maple Leafs
• Tampa Bay Lightning
• Washington Capitals
• Winnipeg Jets
• Colorado Avalanche
• Minnesota Wild
• Edmonton Oilers
• Calgary Flames
• Vegas Golden Knights

The Panthers may prefer not to send Bennett to another Eastern Conference team, minimizing the chances of facing him in the playoffs unless both teams make the Stanley Cup Final.

Ultimately, the Panthers trading Bennett this season seems unlikely. He is far too valuable to the organization, especially as a player who thrives in the playoffs, to move him based solely on a dip in regular-season production. However, if Panthers could trade Bennett for an excellent return, the scenario might unfold.

Next: Who Says No to Blockbuster Trade: Maple Leafs or Avalanche?