NHL News: Panthers’ Sam Bennett shares candid message after earning Conn Smythe, back-to-back Stanley Cup titles

As confetti fell and champagne flowed in the Florida Panthers’ locker room, Sam Bennett stood at the heart of the celebration. His relentless drive and postseason heroics had helped the team capture its second consecutive Stanley Cup — and for the first time in franchise history, one of their own was named the playoff MVP. Bennett was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy, capping off a remarkable postseason run that saw him lead all players with 15 goals.

The 28-year-old center was a force throughout the playoffs, forming a formidable second line with Matthew Tkachuk and producing in critical moments. His physicality, scoring touch, and leadership anchored a Florida team that once again proved capable of going the distance. Yet, in the aftermath of the victory, Bennett’s focus remained on the collective, not on himself.

“My whole focus was on winning the Stanley Cup,” Bennett told The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun. “It’s obviously such a huge honor to be the MVP. But it’s really our 25 MVPs on this team. It really could have gone to anyone. I’m very grateful, but I really could not have done it without this whole group.”

Playoff dominance fueled by team chemistry

Bennett’s Conn Smythe campaign was backed by 11 first-place votes from the Professional Hockey Writers Association, thanks in part to his offensive output and consistency in high-pressure situations. Alongside Tkachuk, he drove play on the second line, matching up against top competition while contributing key goals that shifted momentum in Florida’s favor.

He also made it clear how much more difficult this championship was compared to the previous year. “It’s incredible, it was even harder to win this year than last year,” Bennett said. “We have superstars that are willing to do whatever it takes to win. There’s a big difference between doing whatever it takes to win and just playing hockey. There are a lot of dawgs on this team.”

Trade value turned into franchise legacy

Originally acquired from the Calgary Flames in April 2021 for a second-round pick and prospect Emil Heineman, Bennett has become one of the great trade steals of recent memory. What seemed like a depth move at the time has since evolved into one of the foundational decisions in the Panthers’ rise to elite status. Now, with two Stanley Cups and the franchise’s first playoff MVP to his name, Bennett’s impact is undeniable.

Bennett: Free agency and the future in Florida

With unrestricted free agency just around the corner, Bennett’s breakout postseason has boosted his market value. Some estimates project a potential $10 million AAV deal if he tests the open market. Despite that, both Bennett and the Panthers have expressed interest in staying together. “This is the team I like to play for, these are my brothers on this team,” Bennett said. “It’s remarkable what we’ve done and we can do.”