Panthers Defenseman Bennett Addresses Hit On Flyers Goalie Stolarz

3 min read Post on May 08, 2025

Panthers Defenseman Bennett Addresses Hit on Flyers Goalie Stolarz: "It Wasn't Intentional"

Florida Panthers defenseman Radko Gudas's controversial hit on Philadelphia Flyers goalie Carter Hart last season sparked outrage, but this time, the focus is on teammate Gustav Forsling's check on Felix Sandstrom. The incident, occurring during a recent Panthers-Flyers game, has led to a heated discussion around player safety and the line between a clean hit and an illegal one. While Forsling wasn't penalized on the ice, the NHL's Department of Player Safety is currently reviewing the play. Now, Panthers' defenseman Brandon Bennett has stepped forward to address the situation, offering his perspective on the controversial hit.

The Incident: A Breakdown of the Play

The play in question saw Flyers goalie Felix Sandstrom attempting to play the puck behind the net. Bennett's teammate, Gustav Forsling, delivered a check that sent Sandstrom sprawling. While some argue the hit was clean, others point to Sandstrom's vulnerable position as a goalie and the potential for serious injury. Videos of the incident quickly circulated on social media, fueling the debate amongst hockey fans and analysts alike. The intensity of the debate highlights the ongoing challenges in officiating hits on goalies, a topic of frequent discussion within the NHL.

Bennett's Statement: "No Intent to Injure"

Following the game, Bennett addressed the incident in a press conference, stating, "It wasn't intentional. Forsling is a responsible player, and he's always playing within the rules as he understands them. Accidents happen in a fast-paced game like hockey. We're all trying to play hard and win, but player safety is always paramount."

He continued, emphasizing the difficulty of making split-second decisions on the ice: "You have to react instantly, and sometimes, those reactions lead to unintentional contact. I know Gustav regrets any contact that might have caused Felix any discomfort. It's never our intention to hurt an opposing player, regardless of their position."

The NHL's Department of Player Safety Weighs In

The NHL's Department of Player Safety is known for its thorough reviews of questionable plays. Their decision on whether or not to issue supplemental discipline will likely have a significant impact on how similar incidents are handled in the future. The department considers several factors, including the player's history, the intensity of the hit, and the potential for injury, before making a final ruling. Past decisions by the department have set precedents that influence future calls, leading to ongoing discussions about consistency and fairness.

What This Means for the Future of Hockey

This incident underscores the ongoing conversation about player safety in the NHL. The debate surrounding checks on goalies is particularly complex, as they are often in vulnerable positions when playing the puck. The NHL continues to refine its rules and officiating to better protect players, but the line between a clean and illegal hit often remains blurry. This situation will likely fuel further discussions about rule changes and officiating consistency moving forward. The NHL's ruling will undoubtedly influence how players, coaches, and officials approach similar situations in the future.

Stay tuned for updates on the NHL's Department of Player Safety's decision regarding this incident. What are your thoughts on the hit? Share your opinions in the comments below!