The Florida Panthers edged closer to consecutive Stanley Cup titles as Sam Bennett scored his 15th postseason goal during their 5-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final on Saturday. Bennett’s milestone highlighted one of the most remarkable playoff performances in recent NHL memory, securing his place alongside legendary scorers.
Sam Bennett Joins NHL Legends with Unmatched Playoff Scoring
Bennett’s goal came early in the first period, marking Florida’s second tally of the game and pushing the Panthers within one victory of defending their championship. This achievement also extended his lead as a postseason goal scorer and drew attention to his extraordinary impact throughout the playoffs.
Following Bennett’s goal, the NHL officially recognized his historic accomplishment on social media, noting that only three other players have reached this level of postseason scoring in a single playoff run: Zach Hyman with 16 goals in 2024, Alex Ovechkin’s 15 goals in 2018, and Sidney Crosby’s 15 in 2009.
What makes Bennett’s record even more unique is that he is only the second player ever—and the first since 1919—to score 15 postseason goals without ever having a regular season with 30 or more goals. The only other player to do so was Newsy Lalonde, who scored 17 goals during the 1919 playoffs.
Setting Records on the Road and Sustaining Scoring Streaks
Beyond his total goals, Bennett has set a league record with 13 postseason goals scored on the road, also extending his streak to scoring in six consecutive away games. This feat ranks alongside those accomplished by notable players such as Brian Propp, Mark Scheifele, Kevin Stevens, and Maurice Richard.
During the regular season, Bennett contributed 51 points in 76 games. His current playoff totals stand at 15 goals and seven assists, totaling 22 points in 22 postseason appearances as of the upcoming Game 6. This balanced production underscores his significance to the Panthers’ hopeful Stanley Cup defense.
Context Surrounding the 2025 Stanley Cup Final and NHL Milestones
As the Stanley Cup Final continues, the NHL’s recognition of Bennett’s milestone demonstrates how individual achievements enhance the drama of the championship series. Players like Bennett, with historic postseason goal records, often shift momentum and become key figures in their teams’ pursuit of hockey’s most prestigious prize.
With the Panthers just one win away from back-to-back Stanley Cup championships, Bennett’s performance remains critical to Florida’s success, while the Oilers strive to respond in the remaining games. This moment also keeps Bennett among hockey’s elite, tying a record that has stood for more than a century and illustrating his growing legacy in the sport.