John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Leafs Urged to Play Their Dirtiest Game' in Franchise History After Sam Bennett's Hit on Anthony Stolarz

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated May 6, 2025 11:56 AM ET

Now that Sam Bennett won't face any further discipline for his headshot on Anthony Stolarz, the Leafs are being urged to turn it up and play very dirty next game.

The Florida Panthers seem to have discovered an alternative recipe for success in the playoffs, one that doesn't come in the form of old-school hockey truisms like fighting, establishing momentum early, or peppering the net.

Their real strategy? Wearing down the opposition slowly over the course of a series. Sam Bennett has been the poster boy for it. His knack for causing damage when least expected has become a brand.

This is the same guy who was ridiculed for not passing the pull-up at the draft combine, now delivering immaculately timed, in-your-face hits that go unpunished in the moment.

From the punch on Brad Marchand last year to last night's subtle forearm to Stolarz's forehead, Bennett has made the underhanded headshot an art form. Unfortunately for him, high-definition television doesn't miss anything.

Even with losing Game 1, Florida could have already won the series in their direction by getting rid of Toronto's starting goalie. They do not need to sweep; they need only win four, and they are glad to break down the Leafs layer by layer to get it done.

Bennett did not receive any further discipline for his headshot on Stolarz

The NHL Department of Player Safety will not be issuing any further punishment to Bennett.

Florida has demonstrated their style of hockey, physical, opportunistic, and willing to get dirty. Officials will not stop it. Fines will not stop it. Even goals might not be sufficient. The only genuine means of resisting is to match the anarchy.

If the Maple Leafs wish to proceed, they might need to enter the dark side of playoff hockey and start playing very dirty. After all, it seems the league isn't doing anything about it, so why not?

It will be very interesting to see how strong and dirty the Leafs actually do come out for Game 2 on Wednesday night.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: