Sam Bennett hits career milestone while continuing to drive Florida

Thursday night against the Pittsburgh Penguins marked his 700th NHL game, a number that carries weight for a former fourth overall pick who once faced questions about his durability and projection. Bennett delivered two hits, three shots, and fought through a difficult night in the circle, finishing at 36.4 percent on draws.

The milestone felt bigger because his path has never been smooth. Drafted by the Calgary Flames in 2014, Bennett struggled to match the expectations that come with a top selection. He never grabbed a leadership role in Calgary, and his early years are still remembered for the strange pre draft moment when he failed to complete a single pullup.

Everything changed after his trade to the Florida Panthers in April 2021. He evolved into a playoff force, then became the centerpiece of Florida's 2025 Stanley Cup run. Bennett captured the Conn Smythe Trophy after producing 23 points, then signed an eight year extension worth $64 million.

Fans see him differently now, and many still mention how his summer story sealed the connection. Bennett and his wife Zoe spent their Cup day at the Humane Society of Broward County, the same place where they adopted their dog and launched Benny's Buddies on October 24, 2024. Every Bennett goal sponsors adoption fees, and by early September, NHL.com confirmed that 38 shelter animals found homes through the program.

That generosity contrasts with his edge on the ice. Bennett opened this season with one goal, one assist, a minus nine rating, and 46.9 percent on draws in nine games. The numbers look rough, yet his impact often appears between whistles.

In Boston, he and Sam Reinhart confronted Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov after tensions dating back to March. Florida found scoring from Mackie Samoskevich and A. J. Greer instead of its stars, and the Panthers finally grabbed their first road win after four losses.

Moments like these show why Bennett's value goes beyond his stat line. He carries the bite Florida leans on and the compassion the community loves. His next breakthrough feels closer than his early season totals suggest.