The Florida Panthers defeated the Colorado Avalanche 2-1 on Sunday, ending Colorado’s 10-game winning streak. Goalie Daniil Tarasov stopped 27 shots, including two crucial saves on Nathan MacKinnon late in the third period.
Sam Bennett scored first for Florida, and Aaron Ekblad added the game-winner. The Panthers demonstrated strong defense and solid goaltending, which gave them confidence heading into their next game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Sam Bennett Reflects on Missing Team Canada’s Milan Cortina Olympic Team
Bennett played a key role in Florida’s win over Colorado, opening the scoring with a backhand goal. Despite his performance and consistent play this season, Bennett was left off Team Canada’s Milan Cortina Olympic team.
After Sunday’s game, he spoke with NHL insider Chris Johnston, saying, “Obviously, pretty disappointed. I wish I could have proved that I could help that team win a gold medal, and obviously, I didn’t do enough.”
Bennett reflected on his past opportunity with Team Canada and said, “I try to look at what I’m grateful for, and that’s that opportunity I had last year. That was probably the proudest moment of my career, getting to put on that (Team Canada) jersey. I’m going to be forever grateful for that opportunity.”
He also addressed what more he could have done, adding, “I’m not sure. It was left into other people’s hands, and obviously I didn’t do enough. I can really only look at myself.”
Last year, Bennett represented Team Canada in the 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off, helping the team capture the championship. He scored a crucial game-tying goal against the United States in the final, sending the match into overtime, and finished the game with six shots, leading the team.
READ MORE: Jets Star Mark Scheifele Makes Feelings Clear on Being Left Out of Team Canada’s Olympics Roster
The 29-year-old center has been consistent for the Panthers this season. Drafted fourth overall by Calgary in 2014, Bennett plays a strong two-way game, taking key faceoffs and supporting the penalty kill. Through 41 games, he has 14 goals and 17 assists for 31 points, demonstrating his offensive prowess while also contributing to the team’s success in close situations.
Florida looks to keep their momentum in Tuesday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Key players like Bennett and Ekblad will need to continue strong play as the Panthers test their defense and goaltending against Toronto’s skilled forwards. Bennett’s experience and reliability will be important as Florida pushes toward a playoff spot.
