The Florida Panthers are set to send a league-leading nine players to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, but the celebratory news is tempered by the omission of star forward Sam Bennett from Team Canada's roster. While the Panthers organization and fans express pride in their numerous Olympic selections, the Bennett snub has sparked considerable debate and disappointment.
The Panthers' Olympic contingent includes Uvis Balinskis (Latvia), Gustav Forsling (Sweden), Seth Jones (United States), Anton Lundell (Finland), Eetu Luostarinen (Finland), Niko Mikkola (Finland), Brad Marchand (Canada), Sam Reinhart (Canada), and Matthew Tkachuk (United States). This impressive representation underscores the Panthers' status as a team brimming with international talent.
Brad Marchand and Sam Reinhart will represent Canada, with Reinhart making his Olympic debut after a stellar season. Marchand, a veteran leader for the Panthers, described his selection as an "incredible feeling" and the "highest honor you can have in the game". Matthew Tkachuk and Seth Jones will represent the United States. Jones' selection comes after being a key part of the Panthers' consecutive Stanley Cup runs. The Panthers also boast significant representation on Team Finland, with Anton Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen, and Niko Mikkola all set to don the blue and white. Uvis Balinskis will represent Latvia, and Gustav Forsling will play for Sweden.
However, the joy surrounding these selections is dampened by the conspicuous absence of Sam Bennett from the Canadian roster. Bennett's omission is particularly surprising given his pivotal role in Canada's 4 Nations Face-Off victory last season and his strong performance with the Panthers, where he has recorded 29 points (13 goals, 16 assists) in 39 games. Bennett also won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
"It's tough; there isn't much you can say," remarked teammate Sam Reinhart regarding Bennett's exclusion. "He's someone that has put so much into it.". Despite the snub, Bennett has been named as a potential injury replacement for Team Canada.
Several factors may have contributed to Bennett's omission. The Canadian roster is filled with talent, and competition for spots was fierce. Ultimately, the decision came down to a wire, with several players on the cusp.
The Panthers will continue their season, with several players now focused on representing their countries on the Olympic stage. The experience gained from international competition will undoubtedly benefit the Panthers as they continue their pursuit of the Stanley Cup.
