Mike Benning Gets Assist on Florida Panthers OT Winner in NHL Debut

Florida Panthers rookie defenseman Mike Benning speaks after his team beat the visiting Columbus Blue Jackets 2-1 in overtime on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in Sunrise.

Florida has won three straight.

Thursday, Sergei Bobrovsky made 30 saves with the Panthers outshot 31-16 going into overtime where Sam Reinhart won it on a power play. Sam Bennett also scored.

Mike Benning, making his NHL debut, had an assist on Reinhart’s game-winning goal.

Florida next plays Sunday night against the host Seattle Kraken.

Video Courtesy Florida Panthers / @FlaPanthers / Panthers Vision

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Video Courtesy Florida Panthers / Panther Vision