Positioned in the offensive zone, Bennett spotted Holloway unsuspecting and with his back to the boards. Accelerating into the zone, Bennett landed a hard check from behind—an action surprisingly overlooked by the officials, avoiding a penalty call.
Described by many as a brutal play, Bennett's action could have warranted several penalties, such as charging or boarding. Fortunately, Holloway appeared unshaken by the impact, managing to continue playing. Yet, his resilience was tested again with another significant hit from a different Panthers player, highlighting a night filled with physical challenges.
Sam Bennett, increasingly viewed as one of the NHL's most notorious figures, faced widespread criticism for his aggressive style, which many believe borders on the intent to injure. This incident added to his controversial reputation, sparking a flurry of comments across social media and sports networks.
For the Oilers, the path to a series comeback on such a significant stage involves adhering to their strategic gameplay, avoiding getting dragged into physical altercations. While the Panthers might have the upper hand in a more physical matchup, the Oilers' strengths lie in their ability to dominate with superior offense and defense. The belief within the team remains strong—they are not just participants in the playoffs but contenders poised to make history.
