Matthew Tkachuk & Sam Bennett (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)The grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
But, sometimes, it actually is.
Case in point, former Calgary Flames forwards Matthew Tkachuk and Sam Bennett. It was the right decision for both players to be traded to the Florida Panthers – at least, for their sake.
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Stylistically, it’s been the best fit for the two of them. Playing for the Panthers has allowed Bennett to carve out a successful niche for himself, and the addition of Tkachuk has allowed the team to become one of the top teams in the league today.
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Panthers And Bennett Are A Match Made In Pest Heaven
The Panthers are an aggressive team. They work hard along the boards, they dump and chase, and they aren’t afraid to put a little extra mustard on a hit when they finish their checks.
All of those attributes fit Bennett’s primary skill set to a tee. Stylistically speaking, you couldn’t ask for a better fit between player and team. Except for maybe one other player…
Matthew Tkachuk Has Propelled The Panthers To Greatness
Tkachuk was traded to the Panthers after Bennett was (it’s weird to think about, I know). It’s Tkachuk’s third season with the team, and they are headed to their third straight Stanley Cup Final.
In the 28 years prior to his acquisition, the Panthers only reached the Stanley Cup Final once. While Bennett has been a great addition, it’s easy to make the argument that Tkachuk brings some superstar qualities to the team that have pushed them to become one of the top three teams in the league over the past three seasons.
Tkachuk and Bennett were great players with the Flames. However, they have become unanimous with the Panthers' brand of hockey and have transformed that team into one of the top teams to beat in the NHL.
And they could win another Stanley Cup this year.
It’s safe to say that the grass is greener in Florida, at least for Bennett and Tkachuk.
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