Tampa takes a hit and a Florida Panthers difference-maker could benefit

Monday in Philadelphia, Brayden Point scored a power-play goal, then crumpled and grabbed at his right knee right after the finish. Tampa Bay ruled him out for the rest of the game, and the visual alone made everyone flinch.

Point is already on Canada's Olympic roster, and he is not just any «extra» centre. He is 29, drafted 79th overall in 2014, and he just put up 42 goals and 82 points in 77 games last season.

Hockey Canada locked in that 25-man group on December 31, with Jon Cooper behind the bench and a quiet insurance plan in the background. Sportsnet reported Canada has asked replacement players to stay ready, even if names are not public.

As a fan, I hate that this is how the conversation starts, but Bennett belongs in the mix if a spot truly opens. Canada has skill for days, but you still need someone who wins ugly shifts.

Sam Bennett was left off that December 31 roster, and he handled it publicly without sounding bitter. Still, his resume screams best-on-best utility, 25 goals and 51 points last season, plus a playoff game that never backs down.

Bennett is the rare centre who can tilt a series with forechecks, net-front chaos, and a willingness to eat cross-checks in the slot. He is 29, the 2014 fourth overall pick, and he is signed at an $8 million cap hit, so this is not a fringe player.

None of this is a prediction about Point's diagnosis, because that needs real medical clarity, not blog emotions. But if Canada must adjust, I genuinely hope Bennett gets the call, because he has earned it.

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