Top Free Agent Sam Bennett Sends Bold Message to the Detroit Red Wings Ahead of Free Agency

After a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw the Red Wings once again fall short of the postseason, Detroit is expected to be active in the offseason, with many needs to address, such as the blue line and the top six.

A new report suggested that the Red Wings should go after Sam Bennett, one of the grittiest players in the league.

Bennett, among the most interesting unrestricted free agents set to be available on July 1st, is an obvious target for the Red Wings, but it's far from a sure thing.

Indeed, according to The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, Bennett wants to remain in Florida:

However, the team isn't in a position to offer him the salary he could get from another organization and could end up leaving the Panthers after all.

Currently leading the Panthers' scorers with 19 points in 19 playoff games so far, he notably broke an NHL record by scoring 12 goals on the road in the playoffs:

During the 2024-25 regular season, Bennett scored 51 points, including 25 goals, in 76 games with the Panthers.

The Red Wings would greatly benefit from adding a player like Bennett, but it doesn't seem that realistic, as other organizations could offer him more money, and if he were to accept a smaller deal, it would likely be with Florida.

Yzerman is expected to explore other options on the market, potentially targeting younger forwards and a few veterans who can help establish a winning culture.

As for Bennett, he will be back on the ice tonight for the third game of the Stanley Cup Finals between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers.