Bruins fans are at it again, and this time, the debate is centered around a player they supposedly “hate.” With the 2025 NHL season in full swing, Boston’s playoff hopes have sparked a fiery discussion—should the Bruins throw big money at players? One Reddit user made a bold claim about Sam Bennett that sparked reactions across the hockey world.

A fan under the r/Bruins subhead posted on Reddit on February 21, 2025: “Would you throw Elias Lindholm money at Sam Bennett? Question I hate the player… yet I would definitely overpay $6.5M to $7M AAV to have him become a Bruin. Like another Marchand. Hate him as an opponent, don’t mind him on your team. The guy has also been clutch throughout his career. Loves to get in the dirty areas to make things happen or ruffle feathers. In an ideal world, the Bruins pay that big salary to Bennett and not Elias. Yay or Nay?”

This post blew up among Bruins fans, with reactions ranging from complete agreement to outright disgust. The comparison was a hot topic—Bennett’s playing style has often been described as “gritty,” with his ability to irritate opponents while delivering clutch performances.

For context, Sam Bennett is currently playing on a $4,425,000 AAV contract with the Florida Panthers, which he secured after proving himself as a critical piece of their forward lineup. The Panthers are getting solid value for his production, but does he deserve Lindholm-type money? Elias Lindholm’s current AAV sits at $7.5 million, so fans are asking if that one Panther is worth a similar price tag.

The Marchand comparison? It’s all about how opposing fans despise Marchand, but Bruins fans love him—a sentiment that some believe also applies to Bennett. This has led to some heated talks about whether Boston should make a move. Marchand has built his career on being an agitator with offensive talent, consistently producing elite numbers while frustrating opponents. While Bennett shares some of Marchand’s aggressive, in-your-face style, he has yet to prove the same offensive consistency.

Fans turn up to pitch in on the Sam Bennett probability

One fan said, “Failed Flames rebuild might not be the best strategy. This coming from a Calgary-based lurker,” continuing, “Love the player though. Florida can’t afford to let him walk either.” Bennett started his NHL career with a $3.2 million AAV, and over the past four years, his value has jumped by $2.1 million, landing him at his current $4,425,000 AAV contract with the Panthers for the 2024-25 season.

“Bennett would make a perfect Bruin. He’s a better version of Freddy with more offensive upside,” another fan added. So, Frederic (Freddy) has never hit 50 points in a season, while Sam Bennett’s career high stands at 49 points. The offensive upside argument is debatable, but Bennett does bring a more physical edge.

Few fans are skeptical of the value he’s seen at, saying, “Nope. Lindholm may have been a bust, but Bennett has never put up more than 49 points in a season, and he’s human trash.” While he’s a strong two-way player, his offensive numbers might not scream “$7 million player” to some.

“Failed Flames rebuild might not be the best strategy. This coming from a Calgary-based lurker.” Calgary’s rebuild has been rocky at best. The Flames drafted Sam Bennett 4th overall in 2014, but he never fully lived up to expectations there. They also lost Johnny Gaudreau for nothing in free agency (2022), traded Matthew Tkachuk (2022), and moved Lindholm (2024). Their inability to build around these stars makes the Flames’ past moves questionable.

Bennett to the Bruins? That’s a debate that will keep buzzing. But one thing’s for sure—Bruins fans have some hot takes on how to fix the team’s 2025 season. What’s your take on this? Comment below and let us know!