For most of us, December 31 is the last day of work before the New Year rolls in. It’s time to catch up, close all deals, write resolutions, and move on. But for some Canadian-born NHLers, Dec.31, 2025, was one of the most intriguing days in over a decade. It was the day Hockey Canada officially announced its full Olympic roster. All hockey lovers scrolled down and focused on the players’ names of their favorite or home teams. In our case, it’s the Florida Panthers.
Here are the 2⃣5⃣ players who will wear the 🍁 at #MilanoCortina2026! 🇨🇦
— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) December 31, 2025
Voici les 2⃣5⃣ joueurs qui porteront la 🍁 à Milan-Cortina! 🇨🇦
ROSTER: https://t.co/5I8Uz2Psfa
FORMATION : https://t.co/zbOWuEgdPQ@TeamCanada | @Equipe_Canada pic.twitter.com/dTc1YKengx
Sam Reinhart and Brad Marchand. That’s it. The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs MVP didn’t make the cut. Sam Bennett, who has 33 (16G, 17A) points, 110 shots, and over 49% FO wins in 43 games, will not join the Olympic Team Canada - at least, not as the first option.
In February 2025, Bennett represented Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament and scored one goal in the final game against Team USA.
We may never know why a task-oriented, physical, and experienced center wasn’t included on the initial roster, but there is still hope for his Olympic dreams if someone gets injured. Before a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, the 29-year-old forward shared an update.
Sam Bennett says this morning he did receive a text saying he is a potential injury replacement for Team Canada
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 6, 2026
It’s not a perfect scenario. It’s bitter to see a player who has been outstanding since joining the Panthers five years ago being left out. Benny is on pace for another 50+ points season. A few of his best traits are physicality, simplicity, forechecking, and teamwork.
"“I wish I could have proved that I could help that team win a gold medal.”"Sam Bennett
Is it about his 38 penalty minutes in 42 games? But the way, 14 of them were against the in-state neighbors from the Tampa Bay Lightning. So, Jon Cooper, who will lead Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics, have seen it all. Bennett knows how to get under any opponent’s skin, but he mainly focuses on game situations and has been sent to the penalty box in 10 contests this season. Bennett is currently third on the Cats in points behind Brad Marchand (46) and Sam Reinhart (44). We can guess, but we don't know for sure.....Benny himself showed his classy side, speaking with the media.
"“I can really only look at myself.”"Sam Bennett
At least he will get some Italian souvenirs from his teammates in Florida. Sam Reinhart was named to Team Canada back in June 2025. Brad Marchand got the happy news on Dec.31, 2025.
Given Sam Bennett’s successful run with the Panthers, two Stanley Cups, the Conn Smythe Trophy, the 4 Nations Trophy, and positive community impact with the Benny’s Buddies Foundation, he is a player who has done a lot to be considered for Team Canada at the Olympic stage. Maybe he is too humble off-the ice?!