Panthers Secure Franchise Cornerstone with Reinhart’s Long-Term Extension The Florida Panthers have solidified their future with the signing of All-Star center Sam Reinhart to an eight-year contract extension. The deal, which carries a reported annual average value of $6.5 million, will keep Reinhart in Sunrise through the 2029-30 season. Reinhart, acquired in a blockbuster trade from the Buffalo Sabres last July, has quickly become an indispensable part of the Panthers’ high-scoring offense. In 60 games with Florida this season, he has registered 17 goals and 42 assists, ranking second on the team in scoring. The 26-year-old has blossomed into one of the league’s most dangerous offensive threats, combining exceptional stickhandling and vision with a lethal shot. His ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates has been a major catalyst for the Panthers’ success this season. “Sam is a special player who has made an immediate impact on our team,” said Panthers general manager Bill Zito. “His skill, leadership, and competitive spirit make him a perfect fit for the Panthers’ core. We are thrilled to have him committed to our organization for the long term.” Reinhart, a former second overall pick, expressed his excitement about the contract extension and his continued role with the Panthers. “I love playing in Florida,” Reinhart said. “The fans are amazing, the organization is first-class, and we have a team that can compete for the Stanley Cup. I can’t wait to be a part of this group for many years to come.” The Panthers, currently sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings, are poised for a deep playoff run this season. Reinhart’s extension sends a clear message that the franchise is committed to building a championship-caliber team around him and other young stars such as Aleksander Barkov and Spencer Knight.Sam Reinhart Inks Long-Term Deal with Florida PanthersSam Reinhart Inks Long-Term Deal with Florida Panthers Sam Reinhart has secured an eight-year contract with the Florida Panthers, ensuring his tenure with the team until 2033. The financial details of the agreement remain undisclosed. Reinhart, a 28-year-old forward, was entering the final season of a three-year contract signed in 2021. With the new deal, he avoids unrestricted free agency, which would have commenced on Monday. “Since arriving in South Florida, Sam has proven his scoring prowess while maintaining a strong defensive presence,” said Panthers general manager Bill Zito. “His versatility and value extend beyond the ice, and we are delighted to have him remain with our organization.” Last season, Reinhart shattered his personal best with 57 NHL goals, second only to Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs. His 27 power-play goals and 34 power-play points led the league, while his 94 total points topped the Panthers. In the Stanley Cup playoffs, Reinhart contributed 16 points, including the game-winning goal in Game 7 of the Finals against the Edmonton Oilers. Originally drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in 2014 with the second overall pick, Reinhart has amassed 538 points (255 goals, 283 assists) in 696 regular-season games with the Sabres and Panthers. He has also recorded 33 points in 55 playoff appearances. Reinhart has reached his peak performance since joining Florida in 2021. In his first season with the Panthers, he recorded 82 points, including a career-high 49 assists. Last season, he surpassed those numbers with 67 points and set new career highs in goals and points.Reinhart, a 26-year-old centerman, has agreed to an eight-year, $65 million contract with the Florida Panthers, as confirmed by general manager Bill Zito. The deal carries an average annual value of $8.125 million and will keep Reinhart in Sunrise through the 2030-31 season. Reinhart, who was acquired by the Panthers from the Buffalo Sabres in a trade on July 1, 2021, has recorded 49 points (17 goals, 32 assists) in 82 regular season games with Florida. He also has added 10 points (four goals, six assists) in 19 playoff contests. A native of West Vancouver, British Columbia, Reinhart was originally selected 16th overall by the Sabres in the 2014 NHL Draft. He has collected 252 points (91 goals, 161 assists) in 452 career NHL games with Buffalo and Florida. The Panthers, who finished with a 58-18-6 record last season, were eliminated by the Colorado Avalanche in the second round of the playoffs.