Why Sam Bennett could reject Maple Leafs even if they offer millions

As the Toronto Maple Leafs head into yet another critical offseason, attention has soon turned to what significant transactions the team may conduct. With Mitch Marner's future in doubt and even a rumor that captain John Tavares could be traded, there is increasing sentiment that change is on the horizon.Among the names associated with Toronto is Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett.After failing to meet expectations with the Calgary Flames, Sam Bennett's career flourished after he joined the Florida Panthers in 2021. He's since tallied 196 points in 289 regular season games and contributed 50 points 23 of which were goals in 68 playoff games.He's emerged as one of the most valuable second-line centers in the league, particularly in the Panthers' recent playoff pushes. Alone in the 2025 postseason, Bennett paces the league in nine goals, appearing in the biggest spots. His physical style, clutch scoring, and two-way play have endeared him to teams seeking to rent playoff-tested forwards.Toronto is interesting. If the Leafs do move past Marner and even Tavares a player like Bennett would help make up for the loss. He wouldn't merely substitute offense but would provide another type of grit the Leafs have been missing in the playoffs.Also Read: Why Panthers’ Sam Bennett Wasn’t Suspended After Stolarz Hit IncidentThough interest does not necessarily mean a signing, TSN insider Darren Dreger has recently reported that Bennett might not be interested in signing with the Leafs, even if they make serious overtures."I don't think Sam Bennett would play for the Toronto Maple Leafs," Dreger opined. "It's not a matter of market or media scrutiny it's just that he's going to have choices. If he gets to free agency, 20 or more teams might pursue him."Dreger emphasized that if the Leafs do not get Bennett, general manager Brad Treliving will not be faulted. The marketplace is aware that Bennett will have teams lining up for him, particularly with a thin 2025 free agent crop padding prices.That also implies that dollars may come into play large. Bennett can potentially make $9–10 million annually if the teams fight hard enough for him. In the meantime, Marner, assuming he reaches free agency, will likely command up to $14 million.With both Marner and Bennett's futures uncertain, the Leafs might be facing an offseason full of big choices and big dangers. If they lose both players, the 2025–26 season might begin with more questions than answers.