On Tuesday night, Sam Bennett secured the Conn Smythe Trophy, awarded to the most valuable player of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, following a remarkable postseason that saw him lead all players in goals scored. His contributions were pivotal in guiding the Florida Panthers to their second consecutive championship.
With 15 goals throughout the playoffs, Bennett's scoring prowess was on full display, culminating in a decisive Game 6 victory against the Edmonton Oilers. He outperformed teammate Brad Marchand in the final voting, solidifying his status as a key player.
"The amount of guys that stepped up this year and had incredible years, incredible playoff runs, it truly could have went to anyone," Bennett remarked. "I'm so grateful. It's such a huge honor, but I truly mean that: It could've went to anyone, and I couldn't have done it without my teammates."
His impact extended beyond scoring; Bennett was known for his physical play, often disrupting opponents and creating chaos in front of the net. A notable incident occurred during Game 1 of the second round against the Toronto Maple Leafs when he elbowed goaltender Anthony Stolarz, drawing ire from the opposing team. Throughout the finals, he consistently challenged Edmonton's goalies, Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard.
"Everyone looks at the goals and rightfully so, but it's everything he does, even away from the puck," said teammate Seth Jones. "His physical presence out there, his 200-foot game, the way he plays away from the puck defensively, how he is on face-offs, I think it's the complete package we're lucky to have. It's been a big part of our success. He puts a lot of teams, a lot of defensemen on their heels out there."
Bennett's scoring ability was particularly evident on the road; in Game 2 against Edmonton, he netted his 12th road goal of 2025, setting a new NHL record.
As he approaches free agency, Bennett's stellar postseason performance could lead to a lucrative contract, whether with Florida or another team. The 28-year-old expressed that focusing on the present has been manageable despite the uncertainty surrounding his future.
"Competing for a Stanley Cup has always been my goal and my passion, and what I've wanted to do," Bennett stated before Game 6. "That's just my focus. That's all I want, and it's been quite easy to just not even think about what's to come. I mean, yeah, it's really just a singular focus and that's how I've tried to handle it."
In Game 1, Bennett played a crucial role in back-to-back goals by positioning himself in front of Skinner and later scoring after delivering a significant hit on Vasily Podkolzin during Florida's Game 3 win. His presence was felt throughout the series.
"Physical player, incredible speed and then the hands to finish," coach Paul Maurice noted.
Bennett exemplifies what it means to play Panthers hockey: tough, relentless, and skilled enough to capitalize on mistakes made by opponents.
"He does it all — it's fun to watch," fourth-liner Jonah Gadjovich commented. "He's throwing huge hits, he's playing hard defensively, working pucks in the corners, getting to the net, and obviously scoring a ton of goals. ... He's one of the leaders on the team, someone that we can all get behind."
