Team Canada has announced a significant adjustment to its roster for the upcoming Winter Olympics. Sam Bennett, a forward for the Florida Panthers, will step in for the injured Anthony Cirelli from the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Injury Details of Anthony Cirelli
The decision to replace Cirelli follows his injury sustained during a recent Stadium Series match against the Boston Bruins. The incident occurred less than two minutes into the first period when Cirelli was hit by Mark Kastelic at center ice. The Tampa Bay Lightning and Team Canada coach described the injury as a “kind of a stinger.”
- Age: 28
- Goals this season: 15 in 49 games
- Assists this season: 20 in 49 games
Sam Bennett’s Olympic Opportunity
Sam Bennett, at age 29, will now have the chance to represent Canada on the international stage. He was previously overlooked for a spot on the original Olympic roster despite being a key player in securing gold for Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off last February.
- Current season performance:
- Games played: 55
- Goals: 19
- Assists: 23
Bennett’s Injury Update
Despite leaving a recent game against the Buffalo Sabres with an injury, the Panthers’ head coach, Paul Maurice, confirmed that Bennett is day-to-day. He is expected to be ready to play against the Bruins on Wednesday.
