Missing out on a chance to represent your country on the world stage? That's a tough pill to swallow, and Sam Bennett is still grappling with that reality. The Florida Panthers' forward, fresh off a stellar performance at the 4 Nations Face-Off, was surprisingly omitted from Team Canada's roster for the Milan Cortina Olympics.
Bennett, the reigning Conn Smythe Trophy winner, expressed his disappointment after his team's recent victory against the Colorado Avalanche. "Obviously, pretty disappointed," he confessed to reporters. "I wish I could have proved that I could help that team win a gold medal and obviously I didn’t do enough.”
Here's where it gets interesting: Bennett is currently riding the hottest scoring streak of his 12-year NHL career, boasting a career-best nine-game point streak. He's been a force on the ice, showcasing his competitive spirit and physical engagement – qualities that were on full display at the 4 Nations tournament. Remember that unforgettable moment when he fought Brady Tkachuk?
But here's a key detail: The Olympics operate under IIHF rules, which prohibit fighting. However, Bennett also scored the crucial goal in the 4 Nations championship game, helping Canada force overtime.
Despite his impressive resume, including back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Panthers and being named playoff MVP last June, Bennett views representing his country as the ultimate honor. He reflected on the pride he felt wearing the Team Canada jersey last year, calling it the proudest moment of his career.
Bennett was one of five players dropped from the 4 Nations tournament roster. The management group, led by Doug Armstrong, ultimately decided to include players like Tom Wilson and Brad Marchand, who offer a similar level of physicality. This decision allowed them to add Bo Horvat, whose versatility and elite faceoff skills made him a valuable asset. Horvat is having a standout season, with 21 goals in 36 games.
Bennett, while perhaps not as versatile, has proven himself a clutch performer. He scored 15 goals in 23 playoff games last year and has found his stride this season, currently on pace for a career-best 28 goals and 62 points.
When asked what more he could have done to impress Team Canada's brass, Bennett admitted, "I’m not sure." He added, "It was left into other people’s hands and obviously I didn’t do enough. I can really only look at myself.”
What do you think? Was Bennett's omission justified? Do you agree with the team's selection of players with a similar skillset? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
