EDMONTON - The Florida Panthers defeated the Edmonton Oilers 4-0 on Thursday, continuing their recent success against the team. Sergei Bobrovsky made 21 saves for his fourth shutout of the season and 53rd of his career.
Anton Lundell, one of the Panthers' goal scorers, said the rematch of the last two Stanley Cup finals gave the team extra motivation. Cole Reinhardt, A.J. Greer and Carter Verhaeghe also scored for the injury-ridden Panthers (34-31-3), who snapped a two-game losing streak.
Benning, a defenceman drafted by Florida in 2020, had three points in his fourth NHL game. "It was a hard and simple game, we stuck to our strengths," he said.
The Panthers are unlikely to make the playoffs and defend their titles. Coach Paul Maurice said the team found its edge in the game despite missing key players.
The Oilers, who saw their two-game winning streak end, remain in playoff contention. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins called the loss frustrating, while Darnell Nurse emphasized the team's desire to win every night.
Edmonton is without star forward Leon Draisaitl, who is out for the rest of the season.