Toronto Maple Leafs or Florida Panthers? John Shannon reveals Sam Bennett's free agency shortlist
Sam Bennett's free agency decision down to Maple Leafs or Panthers
The NHL free agency rumor mill is spinning but not for Sam Bennett. While many players will test the market this summer, Bennett's next move might already be locked in. According to veteran insider John Shannon, Bennett isn't planning to entertain offers from across the league.
Nope. It's a two-team showdown between the Florida Panthers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. That's it. Let's break down why this is huge news for both franchises.
What John Shannon revealed about Sam Bennett's free agency plans
John Shannon dropped the bombshell on the
Sekeres & Price Show
, saying:
'Don't waste your time. He's going to play in one of two places: either Toronto or Sunrise, Florida. That's it. That's his decision. He's not going to market the way other free agents do. He'll either be a Panther or a Maple Leaf.'
John Shannon: Who can the Canucks acquire to help them get back to the playoffs?
That's a bold insider statement, cutting through the usual chaos of free agency. While most players test the waters for the best fit, money, or opportunity, Bennett seems laser-focused.
Why Toronto and Florida make sense for Bennett's next chapter
Sam Bennett has thrived in Florida. Since joining the Panthers, he's become a key part of their playoff success, bringing grit, toughness, and clutch scoring. It's no surprise they'd want to keep him.
But Toronto? The Maple Leafs have been craving exactly this kind of player, someone with playoff bite who can complement their offensive stars.
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Adding Bennett to their middle six could give them the depth they've long needed.
There's also the tax angle: Florida offers income tax-free contracts, which has helped them keep stars happy. Toronto, on the other hand, brings the allure of playing for a massive hockey market and a team desperate for postseason success.
What this means for the rest of the NHL free agency market
Shannon's remarks also send a message to other teams, like the Vancouver Canucks, who may have had eyes on Bennett: don't bother. This narrows the market, pushing other teams to look elsewhere for similar players and possibly driving up prices on comparable free agents.
It also signals that Toronto and Florida are locked in a direct tug-of-war, setting up an interesting battle as they shape their rosters for next season.
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