Will Sam Bennett Join the Maple Leafs This Offseason?

Toronto, Canada – The NHL offseason is heating up, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are seeking a center who can perform in the playoffs. One name that has emerged is Sam Bennett of the Florida Panthers, who is a contender for the Conn Smythe Trophy and may be available soon.

If Bennett opts to leave the Panthers and test free agency, the big question is whether the Maple Leafs should pursue him, especially if he is willing to put down roots in Toronto. Bennett has been exceptional this postseason, scoring in nearly every game and rising to the challenge when it matters most.

Unlike many of Toronto’s core players, who often struggle in the playoffs, Bennett has a proven track record of postseason success. His per-82 playoff production rate is striking: 31 goals and 60 points compared to his regular-season average of 19 goals and 40 points. Previously a Flame, Bennett scored six goals and 13 points over two playoff seasons with Calgary and has consistently been one of the top hitters in the playoffs.

Bennett is currently playing on a four-year deal worth $4.4 million annually, a price that ranks him 233rd among NHL players. However, a new contract for him could potentially exceed $10 million, propelling him into the top 20 highest-paid players in the league. Yet, some question whether he is among the elite, as he has never scored 30 goals in a season or topped 60 points.

Still, Bennett has showcased his playoff ability, scoring 27 goals since 2022, including 14 goals in this postseason alone. This puts him in an elite group of players close to matching NHL stars like Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin for postseason goal totals.

Despite his impressive playoff performances, concerns linger about the potential risk of a costly contract. Bennett will be 29 at the start of the next season, leading many to wonder how age will impact his production over the long term. The Leafs cannot afford to invest heavily in a player who might only provide third-line center production in a year or two.

While a trade option may exist, acquiring Bennett directly would provide the team with much-needed talent without depleting their assets. Still, if the Maple Leafs were to ink Bennett, this could limit their flexibility in future free agency, especially as names like Connor McDavid and Kirill Kaprizov might become available in ensuing years.

Statistically, Bennett has consistently scored more goals in the playoffs than during the regular season, which is exactly what the Maple Leafs need. The unanswered question remains whether he can translate that production into a consistent regular-season form that justifies a large contract.

His performance hinges on his fit within the Toronto lineup, potentially playing alongside William Nylander. The Maple Leafs have a more considerable need for production compared to the Panthers, where he received favorable matchups.

Despite initial comfort issues stemming from a challenging time in Calgary, Bennett is seen as a player who could add much-needed grit and experience to the Maple Leafs. Given the likelihood that he will consider Toronto if the offer is sizable, weighing the pros and cons becomes essential for Leafs management.

The Maple Leafs have approached their roster needs with caution, and while Bennett might solve immediate needs, the financial risks accompanying his potential signing could lead to dilemmas, especially with how the landscape of the NHL is evolving.