Paul Maurice comments on Bennett, Jones and Tarasov after win vs LA Kings

Wednesday's win over the Los Angeles Kings capped another strong night in Sunrise and extended Florida's surge to three straight victories. More importantly, it marked six wins in their last seven games, enough to push the Panthers back into a playoff position after weeks of uneven results.

The game itself followed a familiar script lately. Florida leaned into structure, kept shifts short, and refused to trade chances unnecessarily. Against a Kings team that thrives on patience and puck control, the Panthers stayed disciplined and waited for mistakes instead of forcing offense.

That approach is showing up across the lineup. Carter Verhaeghe continues to generate speed through the neutral zone, Anton Lundell has quietly stabilized the middle of the ice, and depth contributions have eased pressure on the top scorers. It's not explosive hockey, but it's sustainable.

Head coach Paul Maurice sounded relaxed after the game, a tone that usually signals trust in the group. When the process looks right, Maurice rarely overreacts, and lately Florida's habits have matched his expectations more consistently.

Verhaeghe spoke about staying inside the game plan rather than chasing momentum, a mindset that has helped Florida close tight games instead of unraveling. Lundell echoed that idea, pointing to puck support and defensive commitment as reasons the group feels more connected.

The Atlantic Division leaves no margin for long slumps, and climbing back into a playoff spot before the calendar flips helps reset the season narrative. Florida no longer looks like a team scrambling to survive.

There's still work ahead. Injuries remain a factor, and consistency will be tested as the schedule tightens. But mood is important over an eighty two game season, and right now the Panthers look loose, focused, and confident.