Sam Bennett may make a comeback for the Florida Panthers in Round 2 after exiting Game 2 of the first round against the Tampa Bay Lightning due to a suspected hand injury.
According to coach Paul Maurice, Bennett is slated to hit the ice on Wednesday morning for his first solo skate since the injury, as the Panthers await confirmation of their second-round opponent.
Maurice indicated that he would provide an update on Bennett’s condition before the commencement of the next series. Despite the Toronto Maple Leafs extending their series against the Boston Bruins to a Game 6 on Monday night, Maurice doesn’t believe this will affect Bennett’s recovery timetable.
“It doesn’t alter anything because the next series will kick off at the scheduled time regardless,” explained Maurice. “There won’t be any delay that could facilitate Bennett’s recuperation.”
Nevertheless, Maurice remains upbeat about Bennett’s prospects for Round 2, expressing, “It’s a distinct possibility,” when questioned about Bennett’s potential return.
Bennett has been a pivotal figure for the Panthers, embodying what Maurice describes as an “identity player.” His style, characterized by aggressive forechecking and physicality, aligns closely with Florida’s system, contributing to their playoff success.
During the Panthers’ journey to the Stanley Cup Final, Bennett amassed five goals and 15 points in 20 games. In this year’s postseason, he recorded a goal and an assist in Game 2 against Tampa Bay before being sidelined with his injury.
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