In the history of the NHL, there have always been players who push the boundaries of physical play. These players understand there’s a fine line between aggressive tactics and crossing the line into dangerous or illegal behavior. But that line isn’t always clear – it shifts depending on the situation. During every Stanley Cup playoff series, certain players seem to test this line even more. Florida Panthers center Sam Bennett is one such player who frequently finds himself at the center of controversy for his style of play, especially when it comes to knocking around opposing goalies.
Sam Bennett’s Role in the Playoffs
In the Stanley Cup Final series against the Edmonton Oilers, Bennett was again in the middle of a controversy during Game 2. He was penalized for goalie interference after colliding with Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner, which allowed Edmonton to score and take the lead in the game. Bennett’s reputation had already been on the line earlier in the playoffs when, in the second-round series against the Toronto Maple Leafs, he hit goalie Anthony Stolarz, causing a concussion that ended Stolarz’s season. Despite these incidents, Bennett continued to play aggressively, even having a goal disallowed in the first game of the Oilers series due to an alleged interference call.
Is Sam Bennett Just Unlucky, or Is He Playing Dirty?
With multiple instances of controversial plays, it’s hard to deny that Bennett’s style of play often puts him in these situations. Some might argue that he’s just unlucky, always being in the wrong place at the wrong time. However, from an objective perspective, it seems more likely that Bennett is intentionally testing the boundaries of the game. His physical, aggressive approach to the game is something he has built his career on, and it’s clear that he knows exactly what he’s doing when he pushes these boundaries.
Why Bennett Won’t Change His Approach
The question then arises: if the NHL isn’t going to take serious action against players like Bennett, why should he change the way he plays? After all, Bennett is getting results for his team. He isn’t being suspended or fined, and the Panthers are benefiting from his contributions on the ice. As long as Bennett continues to play this way without facing significant consequences, he has little incentive to adjust his game. His aggressive style has clearly helped his team succeed, and he’s not suffering any penalties that would force him to change.
The NHL’s Responsibility: What Should Be Done?
The NHL could choose to crack down on Bennett’s behavior by handing out suspensions or fines, but the league has consistently allowed him to continue his physical style of play. If the NHL wants Bennett to stop testing the limits, it will need to enforce more serious consequences, such as longer suspensions. The key to stopping this cycle is for the league to send a clear message that such behavior won’t be tolerated. Otherwise, Bennett and others like him will continue to push the limits because the risk of punishment is low.
Bennett’s Future in the NHL
As Bennett approaches free agency this summer, his style of play could have a significant impact on his market value. Teams may look at his ability to play aggressively as an asset, knowing that the NHL hasn’t taken steps to outlaw it. If the league does eventually suspend him or take action against his style, however, his market value might decrease. Players who push the boundaries of the game without serious consequences are often seen as valuable assets, and that’s likely how Bennett will be viewed when free agency arrives.
Sam Bennett is a prime example of a player who continuously tests the line between aggressive play and dangerous behavior. The NHL’s reluctance to enforce harsher penalties for his actions means that he has little reason to change the way he plays. As a result, Bennett will continue to push the limits of physical play until the league steps in with stronger discipline. If that never happens, Bennett will keep playing his brand of hockey, benefiting from the lack of serious consequences.
