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Panthers' Sam Bennett Sends Clear Message on Maple Leafs Series

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated May 12, 2025 5:40 PM ET

The Florida Panthers took down the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game 4 of their second-round playoff series, evening the best-of-seven matchup at 2-2. Florida showed major championship poise to get the win, and they now have all the momentum heading toward Game 5.

The defending champions didn't flinch when they got down 2-0 in the series, and they are feeling very confident. Florida used some strong defense to take the game, putting Toronto into an uncomfortable spot.

Panthers center Sam Bennett spoke after the game, sending a clear message on the opportunity ahead of his team.

“It’s big,” Bennett said of the turnaround from after Game 2. “We did a great job of showing our composure and we settled down at home. We played two much better games. It’s now a best-of-3. It can be a fun end of the series, for sure.”

Florida is a very physical team, and they showed exactly that physicality in Game 4. The Panthers limited the Maple Leafs to just 23 shot attempts, cutting off the offensive attack that Toronto has been used to.

“That was more like the Panthers playoff hockey that we’re used to,” Panthers forward Sam Bennett said. “Tighter game, less opportunities. We didn’t give up many odd-mans at all. Did a pretty good job of limiting their chances. And 'Bobby' obviously stood on his head.

Game 5 will be massive for both sides, as Toronto will be looking to get some redemption. But the Panthers will look to steal a game on the road, to then have a chance to end the series at home in Game 6.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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