Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett is coming off a postseason high, earning the Conn Smythe Trophy after a clutch Stanley Cup run . But despite the hardware, NHL analytics expert Dom Luszczyszyn believes the Panthers may have overcommitted with Bennett ’s recent eight-year, $64 million contract extension.
Analytics expert flags major concerns about Sam Bennett’s contract longevity
The Florida Panthers are under fire after handing Sam Bennett a $64 million contract that many are calling a reckless gamble. Critics argue the overpay could haunt the franchise, especially as concerns mount over Bennett’s long-term consistency and durability.
“In a vacuum, $8 million for Bennett is too much and so too is an eight-year term that will take up most of his 30s,” Luszczyszyn stated in The Athletic . “This deal may not age very well and it’s on this list for that reason (the first 3-4 years are fine).”
That concern lands Bennett’s new deal as the eighth-worst contract in the NHL according to Luszczyszyn’s valuation model.
A playoff performer, but a one-dimensional player?
Bennett isn’t known for regular-season dominance—his contract isn’t built on 100-point expectations. Instead, Florida values his grit and playoff consistency, a point underscored by his Conn Smythe performance. Still, analytics raise red flags.
The model gives Bennett a $5.5 million market value, indicating a $20 million overpay. Despite his strong offensive presence and elite 5-on-5 play (rated 95%), his -1.1 defensive Net Rating puts him in the 28th percentile defensively—an issue that could magnify with age.
Why the Panthers still made the deal
For most NHL teams, this kind of long-term financial risk would be a hard pass. But the Panthers seem willing to roll the dice. As Luszczyszyn put it: “Signed by another team, Bennett’s new deal would’ve been incredibly risky. For the Panthers, and the Panthers only, it’s a risk they can easily afford.”
Also Read: NHL Trade Rumors: Erik Karlsson sets clear condition for Penguins exit amid rebuilding talks
That luxury is possible thanks to internal team discounts from core stars like Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov. Still, if Bennett’s postseason production stalls, Florida may be left holding one of the league’s most controversial deals.
Analytics expert flags major concerns about Sam Bennett’s contract longevity
The Florida Panthers are under fire after handing Sam Bennett a $64 million contract that many are calling a reckless gamble. Critics argue the overpay could haunt the franchise, especially as concerns mount over Bennett’s long-term consistency and durability.
“In a vacuum, $8 million for Bennett is too much and so too is an eight-year term that will take up most of his 30s,” Luszczyszyn stated in The Athletic . “This deal may not age very well and it’s on this list for that reason (the first 3-4 years are fine).”
This piece is about the players who aren’t worth the money — the worst deals in the NHL.
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) July 31, 2025
It’s when you ask yourself, “How is this guy making that much?” but in a bad way, writes @domluszczyszyn.
And yes, the reigning Conn Smythe winner made this list 👀… pic.twitter.com/Umo8cx6GM8
That concern lands Bennett’s new deal as the eighth-worst contract in the NHL according to Luszczyszyn’s valuation model.
A playoff performer, but a one-dimensional player?
Bennett isn’t known for regular-season dominance—his contract isn’t built on 100-point expectations. Instead, Florida values his grit and playoff consistency, a point underscored by his Conn Smythe performance. Still, analytics raise red flags.
The model gives Bennett a $5.5 million market value, indicating a $20 million overpay. Despite his strong offensive presence and elite 5-on-5 play (rated 95%), his -1.1 defensive Net Rating puts him in the 28th percentile defensively—an issue that could magnify with age.
Why the Panthers still made the deal
For most NHL teams, this kind of long-term financial risk would be a hard pass. But the Panthers seem willing to roll the dice. As Luszczyszyn put it: “Signed by another team, Bennett’s new deal would’ve been incredibly risky. For the Panthers, and the Panthers only, it’s a risk they can easily afford.”
Also Read: NHL Trade Rumors: Erik Karlsson sets clear condition for Penguins exit amid rebuilding talks
That luxury is possible thanks to internal team discounts from core stars like Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov. Still, if Bennett’s postseason production stalls, Florida may be left holding one of the league’s most controversial deals.
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