The New York Rangers are expected to be a fascinating team to follow during the offseason, as they may undergo significant changes.
PuckPedia offers a feature called PuckGM, which allows users to propose trades and signings. One user speculated that the Rangers might sign Stanley Cup-winning forward Sam Bennett to a four-year, $24 million contract, averaging $6 million per season.
On paper, this deal seems reasonable for Bennett, who is in the final year of his four-year, $17.7 million contract with a $4.425 million annual salary. The move would provide him with a pay increase while making him an important addition to the Rangers’ roster.
With potential trades involving Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider, New York may have a need for another forward. Bennett could step into a top-six role, offering physicality and scoring ability, much like Kreider.
Bennett played a crucial role in the Florida Panthers’ 2024 Stanley Cup victory. This season, he has registered 22 goals and 23 assists for 45 points in 66 games with Florida.
Panthers Resume Extension Talks with Panthers
Bennett has been a key contributor for the Panthers, but he is set to become a free agent on July 1.
While Florida has prioritized extending other players, negotiations with Bennett had been on hold. However, as the deadline approaches, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reports that contract discussions between Bennett and the Panthers have resumed.
“Sam Bennett, as things stand, would be one of the top free agents available on July 1—if he reaches that point,” Friedman said on Saturday Headlines on March 15. “I don’t want to speculate too much, but during Florida’s game in Toronto on March 13, there was talk in the press box that negotiations between Bennett and the Panthers had restarted. Again, I won’t predict an outcome, but both sides are making an effort. It’s been a strong partnership between the player and the team.”
Currently serving as Florida’s second-line center, Bennett has been a great fit for the Panthers and has revitalized his career. However, he may explore other opportunities this summer.
Rangers GM Has Intriguing Decisions to Make
Bennett has been a key contributor for the Panthers, but he is set to become a free agent on July 1.
While Florida has prioritized extending other players, negotiations with Bennett had been on hold. However, as the deadline approaches, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reports that contract discussions between Bennett and the Panthers have resumed.
“Sam Bennett, as things stand, would be one of the top free agents available on July 1—if he reaches that point,” Friedman said on Saturday Headlines on March 15. “I don’t want to speculate too much, but during Florida’s game in Toronto on March 13, there was talk in the press box that negotiations between Bennett and the Panthers had restarted. Again, I won’t predict an outcome, but both sides are making an effort. It’s been a strong partnership between the player and the team.”
Currently serving as Florida’s second-line center, Bennett has been a great fit for the Panthers and has revitalized his career. However, he may explore other opportunities this summer.
