It appears Sam Bennett is likely to remain with the Florida Panthers.
The forward for the Florida Panthers is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st. However, he may have already revealed plans for a contract extension currently being finalized.
Shortly after helping the team secure a second consecutive Stanley Cup victory and receiving the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs, Bennett addressed a crowd at a Florida nightclub on Thursday evening. Imitating Leonardo DiCaprio`s portrayal of Jordan Belfort, Bennett reportedly told those gathered, “I ain`t f***ing leaving,” as a graphic displaying “8 more years” appeared behind him on a screen.
Although Bennett`s statement sparked a huge cheer from the audience, reports on Friday indicated that an extension has not yet been formally signed, though negotiations are continuing.
Bennett was the top goal-scorer among all players during the recent playoffs, netting 15 goals and adding seven assists for a total of 22 points.
In the regular season, he set a new personal best with 51 points (25 goals and 26 assists) over 76 games.
The 29-year-old from Holland Landing, Ontario, also participated in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament for Canada, registering one goal in three games.
Bennett originally joined the Panthers from the Calgary Flames in April 2021 and signed a four-year contract extension worth $17.7 million with the team that summer.
Neville Woodall 
Duncan Priestley