Sam Bennett’s Projected Contract: A Fit for the Maple Leafs if Marner Walks
As NHL free agency approaches, the buzz around Sam Bennett is growing louder—and for good reason. With his projected unrestricted free agent (UFA) contract tracking around seven years at \$7.5 million AAV, teams in need of grit, playoff pedigree, and top-six forward depth are undoubtedly taking notice. Among those teams, the **Toronto Maple Leafs stand out, especially if Mitch Marner walks on July 1.
Initial speculation had Bennett seeking something north of \$10 million annually, but those numbers appear to have been overblown. At \$7.5 million, the 28-year-old center/winger provides significantly better value—especially for teams looking to reshape their identity.
Toronto, a team long criticized for its lack of sandpaper in key moments, would benefit from Bennett’s edge, versatility, and postseason acumen.
A native of Holland Landing, Ontario, Bennett has familiarity with the Toronto market and has previously spoken about his desire to play closer to home.
That interest seems mutual, as recent reports suggest Bennett has narrowed his list of desired destinations to Florida and Toronto—a telling sign of where his mind is ahead of July 1.
So, is \$7.5 million a fair number for the Leafs?
On the surface, yes. If Marner leaves—either via trade, buyout scenario, or simply walks—the Leafs would be freeing up \$10.9 million in cap space. Plugging in Bennett at \$7.5M not only provides cost savings but also a significant stylistic shift. Marner, a high-skill, finesse forward, offers elite playmaking and power-play prowess.
Bennett brings a different, arguably much-needed, toolset: a hard-nosed, two-way game**, playoff tenacity, and the ability to chip in offense (he had 20 goals and 41 points in 69 games this season, with strong underlying metrics).
There’s also the question of fit. Under **new head coach Craig Berube, the Leafs are expected to emphasize structure, grit, and accountability. Few players fit that mold better than Bennett.
His style aligns perfectly with Berube’s philosophy, and his ability to play center or wing gives Toronto flexibility if they decide to shuffle lines or move someone like William Nylander back to center.
Of course, there are risks—Bennett has battled injuries and has yet to produce at a truly top-line level consistently over a full season. But in terms of value, role, and impact, a **7x\$7.5M deal** could be a smart pivot if Marner’s time in Toronto is indeed over.
In a summer where change seems inevitable, Sam Bennett could be the kind of addition that redefines the Maple Leafs’ identity—at a fair price.