Sam Bennett has capped off a standout season by being awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy.
The Florida Panthers forward was named the playoff Most Valuable Player on Tuesday night. This recognition came after the Panthers defeated the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final, securing their second consecutive championship.
Bennett, aged 28, was a driving force for the Panthers during their successful playoff run. He led all players in post-season goal scoring with 15 goals and contributed seven assists, accumulating a total of 22 points.
Speaking after the game, Bennett expressed his gratitude: “It’s a huge honour. The depth of this team is incredible. The amount of guys that stepped up this year and had incredible years, incredible playoff runs, it truly could have went to anyone.”
He added that he “couldn’t have done it” without his teammates, and that their reactions to the award “meant the world” to him.
Originally from East Gwillimbury, Ontario, Bennett`s performance sets him up as a prominent name in the upcoming unrestricted free agent class. His four-year contract, valued at $17.7 million, is set to expire.
During the regular season, Bennett achieved career highs, recording 51 points (25 goals and 26 assists) over 76 games.
Duncan Priestley