Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett has been selected to join Canada’s men’s hockey team for the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympics, stepping in for the injured Tampa Bay Lightning center Anthony Cirelli. This change was announced jointly by Hockey Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee on Tuesday.
Cirelli sustained an injury during the Lightning’s recent outdoor game against the Boston Bruins, where he was hit by Bruins forward Mark Kastelic. With 15 goals and 20 assists in 49 games for the Lightning and a solid defensive rating of plus-30, Cirelli’s absence prompted Bennett’s inclusion.
Bennett, a distinguished player with two Stanley Cup titles and a Conn Smythe Trophy win for playoff MVP in 2025, represented Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament last year. He has been in impressive form this season, tallying 19 goals and 23 assists in 55 games.
The 29-year-old Bennett, hailing from Holland Landing, Ontario, was a notable choice as an injury replacement forward. Notable players like Mark Scheifele, Zach Hyman, and Connor Bedard were among the high-profile forwards who did not make the Olympic roster. Meanwhile, the participation of Brayden Point from the Lightning, an initial selection for Team Canada, remains uncertain due to an injury sustained earlier.
Bennett, known for his agitating style of play, has a history of delivering in crucial moments. During the 2025 playoffs, he showcased his scoring prowess with five goals in the Stanley Cup final victory against the Edmonton Oilers. In the 2024 playoffs, he contributed seven goals and seven assists, aiding the Panthers in securing the Cup triumph over the Oilers.
The Canadian men’s hockey team, featuring young talent like Macklin Celebrini alongside established stars such as Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, will mark the return of NHL players to the Winter Games after more than a decade. Canada’s Olympic campaign kicks off on February 12 against Czechia in Milan.
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