Sam Bennett makes striking remarks on teammate Brad Marchand amid their uncertain futures with the Panthers

The Florida Panthers are still enjoying their back-to-back Stanley Cup championships but are simultaneously facing a critical scenario in free agency, especially with negotiations ongoing for contract extensions involving Sam Bennett and veteran Brad Marchand, who could become free agents as of July 1.

Bennett, the 2025 Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe winner, is set to finalizing a significant extension with the Panthers, although no definitive agreement has been reached yet. Meanwhile, Marchand has also made it clear that he wants to continue with the team.

Both players have shown strong chemistry on and off the ice. They are at a similar point in their careers, having won the Stanley Cup but only days away from the end of their contracts with the Panthers. In recent hours, they have been seen together, adding mystery about their next career destinations. In this context, Bennett sent a message to Marchand.

Bennett’s words about Marchand

“That guy is the biggest dawg I have ever played with,” Bennett said referring to his teammate Marchand, according to Sportsnet. The statement is a clear sign of admiration and absolute respect for the former Boston Bruins player, whose presence is fundamental to Florida’s collective success.

Brad Marchand #63 of the Florida Panthers warms up before a game against the before playing the Edmonton Oilers in Game Four of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 12, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.

Will Bennett and Marchand stay in Florida?

It is still uncertain whether both players will remain in Florida, although there is goodwill for that to happen. The truth is that if they leave, the Panthers would lose offensive power that was key to their back-to-back championships. Bennett led the playoffs with 15 goals in 23 games, while Marchand contributed 20 points in the postseason.

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In this climate of potential contract renewals, the chemistry and camaraderie within the locker room is a fundamental value to guide the negotiations. Both the Panthers’ management, through General Manager Bill Zito, and captain Matthew Tkachuk have publicly expressed their desire to retain both players.