Sam Bennett reveals why he missed the Czech OT thriller
Team Canada defeated the Czech Republic 4-3 in overtime on Wednesday to advance to the Olympic semifinals. It was a close call for the gold medal favorites, but Mitch Marner, Nick Suzuki and Jordan Binnington saved the day. Canada was without Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett for the game but winner Conn Smithe says he wasn’t a healthy scratch.
“Bennett himself says he missed the last game due to illness,” Frank Serravalli reported.
Each team brought 14 forwards and eight defensemen to the Olympics, but can dress only 20 skaters. So, for each game, two players are in the press box, and they have two extra players on the bench. Bennett was one of the extra players on the bench for most of the tournament, but he was in the press box for Wednesday’s game.
Canada dressed Seth Jarvis as the 13th forward and had Brad Marchand on the fourth line. Marchand was scratched for some games around the circuit due to a serious injury. But he was able to play on Wednesday and is expected to be available for the rest of the tournament.
There are two significant injuries for Team Canada to monitor as the tournament continues. Josh Morrissey left the first game of the tournament and did not return. Jon Cooper maintained his day-to-day status. Captain Sidney Crosby left Wednesday’s game with a lower-body injury and it is also day by day.
Canada has won the last two Olympics that have featured NHL players. Crosby’s golden goal in 2010 won the tournament on home ice and Carey Price led them to victory in 2014. Crosby then led them to victory in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and the 2025 4 Nations showdown. Canada is expected to win gold. Bennett knows how to win, as a key member of back-to-back Florida Cup champions and a 4 Nations winner. His presence in the last two games could be the difference if he plays.
2026-02-19 14:30:00
