It turns out Sam Bennett will catch a break after all. While he wasn’t Team Canada’s first choice, he has long been viewed as a strong alternative if Anthony Cirelli or Brayden Point became unavailable for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Now, after much speculation and disappointment, Bennett will officially replace the Lightning’s Anthony Cirelli on Team Canada. As of this update, the Panthers forward had 19 goals, 42 points, and 143 shots in 55 games.
In the previous articles, we focused on Sam Bennett’s positive community influence and strong work ethic to become a reliable team player. He received the news that he did not make the initial roster as a champion. He didn’t blame anyone and didn’t share any negative opinion, even though he was disappointed.
"I wish I could have proved that I could help that team win a gold medal."Sam Bennett
The full Team Canada roster was announced on Dec. 31, 2025. Not seeing his name, Sam Bennett remained determined and kept working toward his dream. Demonstrating patience and resilience, he assisted Sam Reinhart with the Panthers’ only (power-play) goal at the 2026 NHL Winter Classic against the Rangers—his first point after the disappointing news.
In January, the Canadian center posted six goals and 13 points in 15 games. However, there are concerns: a minus-10 rating and 60 penalty minutes. Notably, he earned 10 penalty minutes against the Hurricanes (L 9-1) on Jan. 16 and another 10 against the Lightning (L 4-2) on Dec. 27. Team Canada bench boss Jon Cooper is clearly aware of these triggers and will be prepared to manage them.
But don’t expect the 4 Nations or the Battle for Florida rivalry to be at full force in Italy. Such behavior is unacceptable at the Olympics and will result in serious consequences, including bans. That means Bennett, with his 60 penalty minutes this season, will have to be at his best behavior—cold-blooded rather than overheated.
Monday Cold Sweat
All Florida Panthers’ fans’ hearts dropped to the floor last Monday, Feb. 2, when a 29-year-old center left the game early against the Buffalo Sabres with an upper-body injury. It was unclear exactly when the injury occurred during the game. The 2025 Conn Smythe Trophy winner exited after seven shifts and 5:11 minutes of ice time, recording no shots or points and a plus/minus of -1. The Panthers ultimately lost 5-3 after leading 2-0 earlier in the opening period. With the team already dealing with multiple injuries this season, Bennett’s status immediately became a concern.
If Bennett’s health issues had proven serious, he could have lost any chance to join the Olympic roster this year. However, the day after the injury, news broke that the founder of Benny’s Buddies had been officially added to Team Canada for the 2026 Winter Games in Italy.
Yes, the Florida Panthers (14th in the Eastern Conference as of February 4) aren’t in a strong position before the Olympic break. But for the Panthers, who are heading to Italy, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience sports at a different level, represent their countries, and recharge before a playoff push - especially for Sam Bennett, who went through thorns. He is the type of player some fans love to hate, but even more, a player everyone wants on their team. He remains consistent, modest, and productive—and never hides from responsibility. Clearly, Bennett is a strong addition to the Olympic team.