Sam Bennett, a 28-year-old center for the Florida Panthers, will be an unrestricted free agent (UFA) after the 2024-25 season, as his four-year, $17.7 million contract ($4.425M AAV) expires. The Flyers, under General Manager Danny Brière, are looking to improve their roster, particularly at Center, where they lack depth and scoring. Here’s an analysis of whether the Flyers should pursue Bennett, considering their needs, his fit, and potential challenges:
Why the Flyers Should Consider Bennett
- Fits Team Needs: The Flyers desperately need a top-six Center with offensive ability and grit. Bennett’s 2024-25 season (22 goals, 45 points in 65 games) and playoff performance (37 points in 54 games, including 14 points in 19 games during Florida’s 2024 Stanley Cup run) show he can provide both. His physicality (87 hits in the 2024 playoffs) aligns with the toughness Brière seeks to complement young stars like Matvei Michkov.
- Playoff Pedigree: Bennett is a proven playoff performer, with 14 goals and 37 points in 54 postseason games for Florida. His ability to elevate his game in high-stakes situations, including clutch moments like assisting on Carter Verhaeghe’s overtime goal in Game 7 against Boston in 2023, makes him valuable for a Flyers team aiming to build a competitive core.
- Two-Way Game: Bennett combines offensive flair (92 goals, 98 assists in 278 games with Florida) with relentless forechecking and physical play, making him a versatile fit for a Rick Tocchet-coached team. His style could complement Michkov’s skill and add an edge to a lineup lacking toughness.
- Fan Sentiment: Some Flyers fans see Bennett as a desirable target due to his size, grit, and scoring ability, addressing a clear roster gap.
Challenges and Considerations
- Cost and Term: Bennett is projected to command a significant raise, potentially $6M–$7M per season on a long-term deal. The Flyers have cap space (projected at $10M–$12M for 2025-26 after RFA deals), but committing to a long-term contract for a 29-year-old physical player carries risks, especially given his injury history (e.g., shoulder surgery in 2014, missing time in 2023). A long-term deal could conflict with Philly’s rebuild timeline, as noted by analysts who suggest shorter-term “stopgap” Centers instead.
- Competing Suitors: As a top UFA, Bennett will attract interest from contenders like the Toronto Maple Leafs, who have been linked to him due to his hometown ties. The Panthers are also prioritizing an extension, with General Manager Bill Zito keen to retain him. A bidding war could drive up costs, making it harder for the Flyers to compete without overpaying.
- Rebuild Strategy: The Flyers are focused on sustainable growth, not immediate contention. Brière has emphasized avoiding bottom-tier finishes but isn’t aiming for a Cup in 2025-26. Signing a high-cost UFA like Bennett could divert resources from developing prospects like Jett Luchanko or acquiring younger assets via trade, which some analysts argue is a better path.
Strategic Considerations
- Short-Term vs. Long-Term: If the Flyers pursue Bennett, a shorter-term deal (Two-Three years) could provide a veteran presence without locking up cap space long-term, aligning with their rebuild. However, Bennett’s camp may prioritize maximum term and money, as he’s in his prime.
- Alternatives: Analysts suggest other UFA’s like Mikael Granlund (33, $5M AAV) for a shorter-term, cheaper option with offensive upside. Trading for a younger Center might better suit Philly’s timeline, though such players are rarely available. This could lead the Flyers into overpayment for an offer sheet for an RFA (Restricted Free Agent).
Recommendation
The Flyers should consider pursuing Bennett if they prioritize immediate competitiveness and believe he can elevate their top-six alongside Michkov. His grit, playoff experience, and two-way play make him an excellent fit for a team needing center depth and toughness. However, given their rebuild, a long-term, high-cost deal (e.g., Six–Seven years at $6M+) is risky. If Bennett’s price escalates or Florida extends him, the Flyers should pivot to alternatives like Granlund or trade targets to avoid overcommitting.
Ultimately, Brière must weigh Bennett’s immediate impact against the long-term goal of building a contender around young talent. If the Flyers can secure him at a reasonable cost, he’s a strong addition; otherwise, they should explore other options to address their Center needs.
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