The agent for Sam Bennett released a statement on Friday addressing Bennett's contract situation and the recent comments from the Florida Panthers forward.
The Panthers continued their Stanley Cup celebrations well into the evening on Thursday that ultimately led the team to 11 Miami Nightclub, where pending free agent and Conn Smythe Trophy winner Sam Bennett made a bold proclamation about his immediate future, referencing the infamous Wolf of Wall Street quote :
"I'm not f---ing leaving!", after he was bombarded with '8 more years' chants from the Panthers fans in attendance.
Bennett's mic-drop moment sent social media into a frenzy, which led to The Toronto Sun reaching out to his agent, Darren Ferris. Ferris responded to the message, releasing a statement through text regarding the status of Bennett's negotiations.
"It was an incredible and emotional night for the Panthers and well-deserved," Ferris said. "The celebrations have been amazing to see, and Sam's just taking it all in with his teammates right now. At this time, no contract has been signed - when there's something official, we'll share it accordingly."
Obviously there is still a contract to negotiate, but Bennett has been adamant about staying in Florida, and his words on Thursday night further emphasized that.
Now, all the Panthers have to do is step up with a reasonable offer, and it will be pen to paper before July 1st for the two sides.