Sam Bennett has etched his name into NHL history as the Florida Panthers clinched their second consecutive Stanley Cup, and the 28-year-old forward was honored with the prestigious Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Moments after the Panthers secured a commanding 5-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in Game 6 of the Final on June 17, 2025, Bennett was celebrated before a roaring crowd at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida.
Bennett's playoff performance was nothing short of spectacular, leading all NHL players with 15 goals over 23 postseason games, complemented by seven assists for a total of 22 points. His offensive prowess was matched by his physicality and defensive commitment, making him a formidable presence on both ends of the ice throughout the playoffs. Notably, Bennett scored five goals and contributed one assist during the Stanley Cup Final, playing a pivotal role in the Panthers’ championship run.
This marks the first time a Florida Panthers player has won the Conn Smythe Trophy, a significant milestone for the franchise. Last year, the award went to Edmonton’s Connor McDavid, who impressively earned it despite his team falling short in the Final. Bennett’s achievement underscores his vital contribution to the Panthers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup triumphs.
Throughout the postseason, Bennett consistently elevated his game, scoring at least three goals in every playoff round. His 15 goals in 23 games represent more than half of his previous single-season goal record, a testament to his clutch performance when it mattered most. He also set an NHL record with 13 road goals in a single postseason, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure away from home ice. Bennett extended a remarkable road goal streak to six consecutive games during a 5-2 win against the Oilers in Game 5, becoming just the fifth player in league history to achieve such a feat.
His impact went beyond scoring. Bennett was known for his physical style of play, delivering thunderous hits and crowding the crease to disrupt opposing goalies. His ability to draw defenders and create space for teammates was a key element of the Panthers’ success. Teammates and coaches alike praised his complete game. Defenseman Seth Jones remarked, "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." Meanwhile, coach Paul Maurice highlighted Bennett’s all-around contributions, saying, "Physical player, incredible speed and then the hands to finish. He just didn’t show up here and say, 'OK, feed me and I'll show you how good I am.' There’s more to it."
Bennett's playoff heroics included memorable moments such as his Game 3 shift in the Final, where he initiated a play with a crushing hit on the defensive end before finishing it with a skillful deke on offense. This blend of physicality and skill perfectly encapsulates the Panthers’ style of play—hard-nosed, aggressive, and opportunistic.
His journey to this pinnacle has been marked by perseverance and growth. Bennett spent eight seasons with the Calgary Flames before being traded to Florida in 2021, a move that transformed his career. Reflecting on his evolution, Bennett said, "I always believed in myself. I always knew I could be more than I was when I first got traded. But it’s all a dream I guess until you actually do it. I don’t think I knew how difficult it would be and how much work it would take. My whole life switched when I got traded here, and super grateful to be here. I don’t take that for granted."
His recent regular season was also career-best, surpassing 50 points for the first time with 25 goals and 26 assists over 76 games. Yet, it was in the playoffs where Bennett truly shined, far exceeding his previous goal-scoring highs and establishing himself as a clutch postseason performer.
As the NHL offseason approaches, Bennett faces a significant decision. Set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2025, he is poised to attract considerable attention from teams across the league. His resume now boasts two Stanley Cup championships and a Conn Smythe Trophy, credentials that can command a lucrative contract. Despite the impending uncertainty, Bennett has maintained his focus on team success above all else. "My whole focus was on winning the Stanley Cup. It’s a huge honor to be nominated as the MVP, but there truly are 25 MVPs on this team, and it could’ve gone to anyone," he said, emphasizing the collective effort behind the Panthers’ triumph.
The Panthers’ roster, bolstered by key additions like Brad Marchand and Seth Jones at the NHL trade deadline, combined with a core group featuring stars such as Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk, created a championship-caliber team. Bennett’s leadership and on-ice contributions were integral to this formula, and his teammates hold him in high regard. Winger Carter Verhaeghe praised him, stating, "He’s an unbelievable player, and he deserves it so much. He’s been such a huge impact for this group." Matthew Tkachuk echoed this sentiment, calling Bennett "a beast all playoffs."
In the Stanley Cup Final series against the Oilers, Bennett was a constant thorn in their side, scoring five goals and assisting once, helping Florida to a 4-2 series victory. His ability to perform at a high level against elite competition underlines his value to the Panthers.
As the offseason unfolds, the Panthers have an opportunity to retain their playoff MVP and cornerstone player. Bennett’s decision will shape the team’s future and could have ripple effects throughout the NHL free agency market. Whatever path he chooses, his 2025 playoff performance has already secured his place among the league’s elite and solidified his legacy in Florida Panthers history.
For now, the focus remains on celebration and reflection. Bennett’s journey from a player once labeled a draft bust to a two-time Stanley Cup champion and Conn Smythe Trophy winner is a compelling story of resilience and determination. His impact during the 2025 playoffs was undeniable, and as the Panthers bask in their championship glow, Bennett stands tall as the symbol of their hard-fought success.
