Sam Bennett could have gone to free agency and picked his landing spot, plus probably could have signed for much more money than the Florida Panthers were able to offer.

SUNRISE, Fla. – Florida Panthers President of Hockey Operations & General Manager Bill Zito announced today that the club has agreed to terms with forward Sam Bennett on an eight-year contract extension.

Conn Smythe Trophy winner Sam Bennett signed an eight-year, $64 million extension with the Florida Panthers on Friday night. Bennett, who turned 29 earlier this month, is now under contract through the 2032-33 season.