Latest news with #StanleyCupPlayoffs
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Contract extension on the cards? Sam Bennett drops major hint on staying with Panthers after playoff success
Is Sam Bennett hinting at a long-term future with the Florida Panthers? (Getty Images) Sam Bennett has just delivered a postseason for the ages, and as the Florida Panthers celebrate their back-to-back Stanley Cup championships, fans are now holding their breath over one critical question: will Bennett be back? The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs were a career-defining stretch for Bennett, who not only helped power the Panthers to glory but also walked away with the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the postseason. His 15 goals, including a record-setting 13 on the road, along with seven assists across 23 games, made him an unstoppable force throughout the playoffs. The performance was punctuated by five crucial goals in the Finals, including key tallies during the decisive 5–1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in Game 6. Are the Panthers and Sam Bennett close to reaching a new deal? While Bennett is set to hit unrestricted free agency on July 1, the signs of a potential return are impossible to ignore. In the middle of postgame celebrations, fans surrounded Bennett with chants of 'eight more years,' and rather than deny the idea, he embraced the moment—smiling, acknowledging the fans, and fueling speculation about a contract extension. The mutual admiration between player and franchise has never been clearer. 'It's harder than I ever imagined to win the Stanley Cup once, and twice was even harder,' Bennett reflected. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Undo 'So it's a huge honor to be a part of this group. I'm not going to take it for granted. I love being here, and I love this team.' Bennett's statement carries weight, not just for its emotion, but for the journey it represents. His transformation in Florida has been remarkable. After arriving from Calgary with doubts clouding his potential, he has evolved into one of the league's elite playoff performers. 'I always believed in myself,' he said. 'I always knew I could be more than I was when I first got traded. But it's all a dream, I guess, until you actually do it. ' Head coach Paul Maurice also highlighted Bennett's journey: 'There's a lot of heaviness that he had... There's a lot of work that had to go into it. He didn't show up with his talent and say, 'OK, feed me, and I'll show you how good I am.'' Sam Bennett | 2025 Conn Smythe Trophy Winner While contract negotiations will test the Panthers' salary cap flexibility, there's a growing sense that both sides want to make it work. With FanDuel having taken down the odds on Bennett's return—previously favoring it at -230—it's clear insiders suspect a deal might already be in motion. For now, Bennett has etched his name into Panthers lore. The only thing left is to see whether that legacy will continue to grow in Sunrise. Also Read: After being 'silenced' in Final, Connor McDavid's name surfaces in bold Maple Leafs trade prediction Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
Time of India
14 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
NHL Rumor: NHL star Sam Bennett avoids Maple Leafs in surprising free agent update
NHL Rumor: NHL star Sam Bennett avoids Maple Leafs in surprising free agent update (Image Source: Getty Images) Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett just helped his team win their second straight Stanley Cup. While fans are celebrating, talks about his future have already started. With his current contract ending soon, people want to know where he might play next. One NHL insider has now shared a big update that's getting a lot of attention—especially from Toronto Maple Leafs fans. But it's not the news they were hoping for. Sam Bennett reportedly not interested in joining Toronto Maple Leafs On Wednesday, June 19, 2025, NHL insider Andy Strickland posted an update on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that sparked strong reactions. Strickland wrote, 'Hearing Toronto will not be on Sam Bennett's list of free agent destinations, if unable to come to terms with Florida and he becomes a UFA.' Sam Bennett's four-year deal worth $17.7 million is coming to an end soon, and he will become an unrestricted free agent if he and the Panthers don't agree on a new contract. — andystrickland (@andystrickland) Bennett is coming off a strong playoff run where he won the Conn Smythe Trophy. He scored 15 goals during the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs and played a key role in helping the Panthers win back-to-back titles. Despite his strong season, it seems he has no plans to move to Toronto. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Perdagangkan CFD Emas dengan Broker Tepercaya IC Markets Mendaftar Undo At 28 years old, Bennett is expected to get a big contract this summer. But fans in Toronto might be disappointed if they were hoping to see him join the Maple Leafs. Frank Seravalli explains why Florida has an edge in keeping Sam Bennett NHL analyst Frank Seravalli gave more details about why Florida might be able to keep Sam Bennett, even if other teams offer more money. Speaking on Sportsnet earlier this week, Seravalli said, 'They've got the no state income tax advantage.' He added that Bennett could sign for eight years at $7.5 million per season and still earn more money than he would elsewhere. Also Read: NHL Trade Rumors: Toronto Maple Leafs Eye Sam Bennett As Potential Mitch Marner Replacement In Free Agency Shake-Up He explained how taxes in different cities affect NHL contracts. 'One team might offer seven years at $10 million, but after taxes, that could be less than Florida's offer,' Seravalli said. This makes it harder for teams in high-tax places like Toronto to attract big names. This matches what Andy Strickland said Bennett might not even consider Toronto if he leaves Florida. His choice may not be just about hockey, but also about money and comfort. Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
Time of India
15 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
What led Laura Okmin to leave Fox after 23 years? The voice NFL fans knew for decades now says goodbye to the sidelines
Laura Okmin exits Fox Sports after 23 years (Fox Sports/X) After more than two decades of standing on NFL sidelines and telling the game's stories with grace, Laura Okmin has decided to take her final bow at FOX Sports. A seasoned voice in sports broadcasting, Okmin leaves behind a remarkable legacy after 23 impactful years with the network—making her the third-longest-tenured sideline reporter in NFL history. Laura Okmin bids farewell to FOX Sports after 23 years Laura Okmin's journey at FOX began in 2002, but her career had already been shaped by prior roles with CNN, TNT Sports, and SportsChannel in Chicago. Over the years, Okmin built a résumé that most sports journalists only dream of, having covered more than 20 Super Bowls, the Olympics, NBA Finals, World Series, and Stanley Cup Playoffs. However, what set her apart was not just the sheer volume of her experience—but the heart with which she reported each story. In a heartfelt conversation with Front Office Sports, Okmin revealed that her departure wasn't a forced decision but rather an intentional one, guided by inner clarity. 'They sent me the contract. I printed it out. I sat there. It was just my voice saying, 'It's time; this is it,'' she shared. The moment she broke the news to FOX executive Jacob Ullman—who is also a longtime friend—was emotional. 'I'm happy to say he was very surprised. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Here's The Price for a 1-Day Walk-in Shower In 2025 Homebuddy Learn More Undo I would have been very disappointed if there was any other reaction. It was a really nice call, because I got to have it with my boss and my friend.' While she's walking away from FOX, she's far from done. Okmin will continue to lend her voice to NFL playoff games and the Super Bowl through Westwood One Radio. But what truly excites her now is the opportunity to grow her passion project—GALvanize, a platform she founded to uplift and mentor young women aspiring to break into the sports industry. GALvanize isn't just a training program—it's a movement that stems from Okmin's own experiences in a male-dominated industry. Her mission is simple yet profound: to provide young women with something she never had—a support system. Through workshops, seminars, and boot camps, GALvanize aims to equip participants with confidence, storytelling skills, and above all, empowerment. 'Training and mentoring young women entering the sports world on – and more importantly – OFF camera,' is how her website captures the essence of the program. Reflecting on her long career, Okmin was candid about the challenges of constantly proving her worth. 'Honestly, it's a tough job having to justify your job for 20 years... There's a wonderfulness that comes with it. But also a lot of other ----.' That honesty is what endeared her to so many fans and colleagues. As FOX Sports sees a reshuffle in its sideline lineup—with Erin Andrews and Charissa Thompson also expected to exit—Okmin's absence will certainly be felt. But in stepping away from the camera, she's stepping into a purpose that may impact the next generation even more profoundly. Also Read: Jordon Hudson throws subtle shade at Bill Belichick's ex Linda Holliday during emotional tribute to pageant friend Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
Time of India
20 hours ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Matt Duchene signs four-year extension worth $18 million with Dallas Stars
Dallas Stars forward Matt Duchene has signed a four-year contract extension with the team, general manager Jim Nill announced on Thursday, June 19, 2025. The deal carries an average annual value (AAV) of $4.5 million and will run through the 2028-29 NHL season. PuckPedia states the contract includes a full no-move clause for the first two seasons. In the final two years, it shifts to a modified no-trade clause, which allows Duchene to submit a list of five teams to which he can be traded. 'We are thrilled to have Matt back with our organization,' Nill said. 'As our team's leading scorer last season, he helped solidify our forward group while providing invaluable leadership off the ice and in the community.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: 1 simple trick to get all TV channels Techno Mag Learn More Undo Duchene originally joined the Stars in the summer of 2023 after the Nashville Predators bought out his contract. He signed a one-year, $3 million deal with Dallas and returned on the same terms for the 2024-25 season, and he delivered in both years. The 34-year-old from Haliburton, Ontario, recorded 30 goals and 52 assists for 82 points in 82 games this past season. It marked the second time in his career he reached the 80-point mark, and the third time he scored 30 goals in a single season. He finished second in team scoring behind newly-acquired forward Mikko Rantanen. Live Events In the 2023-24 season, Duchene had tallied 25 goals and 40 assists for 65 points, after inconsistent years with Nashville and the Ottawa Senators. In the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Duchene added one goal and five assists for six points. The Stars reached the Western Conference Final but were eliminated by the Edmonton Oilers for the second consecutive year. Throughout his NHL career, Duchene has played 1,138 games, scoring 371 goals and adding 520 assists for 891 points. He has also contributed 37 points in 69 playoff appearances.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Florida Panthers no longer satisfied just to play in Stanley Cup Final
Silly superstitions. In one arena, the Florida Panthers stayed as far away from the trophy signifying their Eastern Conference championship – the Prince of Wales – shunning the shiny 2-foot-tall piece of sterling silver as it was brought onto the ice after their Game 5 win over Carolina. Advertisement In another venue, nearly 2,000 miles away in Dallas, the Edmonton Oilers surrounded their trophy – the Clarence S. Campbell Bowl – after eliminating the Stars in the Western Conference Final in five games, each player making sure his fingerprints were all over the prize. May 28, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Florida Panthers forward Carter Verhaeghe (23) celebrates a goal during the third period against the Carolina Hurricanes in game five of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images While both teams will acknowledge the job is not done as they prepare for a rematch of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final starting June 4 in Edmonton, last year's result dictates this year's superstition. The Panthers, after touching the Prince of Wales Trophy two years ago and then being smoked by Las Vegas in the Stanley Cup Final, ignored it a year ago before winning their first title. Advertisement Aside from being a talented, connected, determined bunch, you can also describe this team has having long memories. Because even during the team photo after the Game 5 clincher, at least a 1-foot gap separated the trophy from the nearest players, including captain Aleksander Barkov. Florida Panthers' Bill Zito: GM who doesn't 'do anything' (but gets everything done) May 28, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Florida Panthers pose with the Prince of Wales Trophy as they advance to the finals after wining against the Carolina Hurricanes in game five of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images The Oilers avoided the Clarence S. Campbell Bowl a year ago and that did not work out very well. Edmonton dug too deep a hole, falling behind Florida 3-0, before a furious rally fell one game short, losing Game 7 in Sunrise. "The bigger picture has changed … for our team," Panthers coach Paul Maurice said after the 5-3 win over the Hurricanes that closed out the conference final in five games. Advertisement "The first time, and you fight to get to the final, it's just such a big deal. And then when you do it a couple of times, you understand three-quarters of the way through (the playoffs), and there's lots more that has to happen." Like any franchise that tastes success the way the Panthers have the past three years, expectations are heightened. Matthew Tkachuk said just making the final two years ago "felt like such an accomplishment from where we were at one point." Rightfully so. The Panthers had won one playoff series the previous 27 years before losing that 2023 postseason that ended with losing the final round in five games. Florida Panthers headed to third straight Stanley Cup Final Then it happened. First, a Stanley Cup Final run that gives you that taste. Then, using that experience to complete the mission for the first time. And now, headed back for the third straight year. Advertisement "We didn't come here to win the Eastern Conference," Barkov said. The Panthers are acting, talking, playing like a group that will never be satisfied unless the ultimate is achieved. Florida not only has crossed that threshold of just being happy to be there, it has raised that bar so high that suggesting making the Stanley Cup Final should be cause for great celebration is an insult. "It's an odd feeling," said forward Brad Marchand, whose acquisition at the trade deadline, along with obtaining defenseman Seth Jones, should seal the GM of the Year Award for Florida's Bill Zito. "Excited to win the East, but our job isn't done." Advertisement What we have with the Panthers is a run bringing back memories of the Miami Heat's dominance from 2010-11 to 2013-14 that resulted in four trips to the NBA Finals and two titles. Dynasty? Not quite. A franchise needs to carry sustained success for more than three or four years and win more than one or two titles to join such an exclusive group of teams like the Canadiens, Yankees, Celtics and Patriots. But it has to start somewhere. And with the leadership of owner Vinnie Viola, and Zito, the Panthers at least now can initiate that conversation, just like it was a conversation 15 years ago when it came to the Heat with owner Micky Arison and Pat Riley. "They're the standard, obviously," Carolina coach Rod Brind'Amour said about the Panthers after his team was eliminated. Advertisement The Panthers are the ninth franchise to play in three consecutive Stanley Cup Finals, second in the past 40 years joining the 2020-22 Tampa Bay Lightning. Franchises not on that list include three of the league's Original Six – Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers. They are attempting to become the third team this century to win back-to-back titles: Pittsburgh Penguins (2016, '17) and Lightning (2020, '21). The beauty of this Stanley Cup Final is nobody is coming into it wide-eyed and overwhelmed. The moment should not be too big for either team. The fact that we have a rematch of a seven-game series evens out the experience and Wow! factor. Advertisement "It's not our first rodeo with this," Tkachuk said. "We are going to be very prepared." Expect the same from the Edmonton Oilers. Tom D'Angelo is a senior sports columnist and reporter for The Palm Beach Post. He can be reached at tdangelo@ Stanley Cup Final Game 1: Panthers at Oilers 8 p.m., Wednesday, June 4 TV: TRU, TNT This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida Panthers seeking second Stanley Cup in third straight final
