Three Florida Panthers stars chase milestones as season comes to an end

Mar 3, 2026 (8:56)

Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

Forward Sam Bennett and head coach Paul Maurice are navigating a rare, quiet March after two straight championships.

The Florida Panthers are officially on the outside looking in, with a playoff spot now likely out of reach.

It is a tough pill to swallow for a group that hoisted the Stanley Cup back-to-back years. Injuries derailed the dream early.

Despite the team's struggles, the locker room is focused on individual history during this final stretch of the schedule.

Bennett is currently sitting on 199 career helpers. He needs just one more to reach his 200th NHL assist.

Over his NHL career, Bennett has transformed from a Calgary draft bust into a premier power forward in South Florida.

He isn't alone. Anton Lundell is also knocking on the door of a major career achievement tonight against the Devils.

Lundell sits at 199 career points. One more scoresheet entry and the 24-year-old Finn reaches the 200th NHL point plateau.

Meanwhile, Jesper Boqvist is hunting for his 50th NHL goal. He has been a solid depth piece throughout this difficult campaign.

The Panthers are currently 32-34-5. The defensive structure has collapsed entirely since January, leading to a -18 goal differential.

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Maurice has kept his veterans motivated despite the lack of postseason stakes. He demands a crisp passing game every night.

"We play for the guy next to us," Maurice noted Tuesday. That sentiment is clear as the team rallies around these milestones.

The transition game should be on full display. Florida still ranks top-five in shots on goal per game despite the losses.

Losing the chance for a three-peat is devastating. However, seeing young stars like Lundell hit 200 points provides a silver lining.

Expect the bench to erupt when that first milestone puck is collected. It is the only joy left in a season of "what ifs."

Previously on Sunrise Hockey Insider

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MARS 3\|71 ANSWERS Three Florida Panthers stars chase milestones as season comes to an end Will the Florida Panthers return to the playoffs next season?
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