Maple Leafs Stay Focused After Controversial Sam Bennett Hit on Anthony Stolarz
Game 1 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs’ second round between the Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs brought not just high intensity but also controversy. Midway through the second period, Panthers forward Sam Bennett charged the net during a power play and made unexpected contact with Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz—hitting him in the back of the head with his arm.
The aftermath was concerning. Stolarz appeared visibly shaken, even vomiting on the bench before being taken to a hospital for evaluation. Yet despite the severity of the collision, Bennett wasn’t penalized during the game, and the NHL’s Department of Player Safety later confirmed that no disciplinary action would be taken.
While many fans were outraged, Toronto forward Scott Laughton responded with a level head. When asked how the team should react to the incident, Laughton simply said, “To win.” His response reflected a disciplined mindset—choosing to focus on performance and advancing in the playoffs rather than seeking retaliation or distractions.
Scott Laughton when asked what the team’s response tonight should be to the Sam Bennett hit that took Anthony Stolarz out of the game:
“To win.”
— Anna Dua (@AnnaNoelleDua) May 7, 2025
This maturity marks a potential turning point for a Leafs squad that has historically struggled with maintaining composure in high-stress playoff scenarios. Instead of losing their cool over controversial moments, the team now seems determined to stay focused and play smart hockey.
Sam Bennett, for his part, expressed concern for Stolarz after the game. Speaking to reporters, he said, “I heard that he went to the hospital last night, and he’s a good friend of mine. I reached out to him. He responded. Never want to see an injury like that.” Bennett also emphasized that he didn’t realize contact had been made during the play and insisted there was no intent to injure.
The hit has stirred debate in the hockey community—was it just playoff intensity, or did it cross a line?
Regardless, the Maple Leafs appear to be turning the page. With Stolarz’s condition stabilized and no action taken against Bennett, Toronto’s response will now be measured not by emotion, but by how they bounce back on the ice.
As the series continues, all eyes will be on both teams—one aiming to defend their physical style of play, the other determined to let their game do the talking.