Welcome to another edition of NHL rumours. This edition will focus on the still red-hot discussion regarding Team Canada\u2019s Olympic roster. In particular, the focus will be on one of the most notable snubs on the Canadian roster.<\/p>\n
So, let\u2019s jump right into this ongoing discussion.<\/p>\n
Rumour: Insider Elliotte Friedman discussed his disbelief of Sam Bennett<\/a> not being named to Team Canada\u2019s Olympic roster<\/a>. Friedman hinted at the main reason for the snub. In particular, the notable insider hinted at Team Canada coach Jon Cooper preferring other players ahead of Bennett.<\/em><\/p>\n Analysis: NHL rumours have begun swirling around the Florida Panthers’ center and the reigning Conn Smythe Trophy. The chatter has focused on his exclusion from Team Canada\u2019s Olympic roster being a coach’s decision.<\/strong><\/p>\n After all, Sam Bennett is famous for being a big player in big games. Last season, Bennett raised some eyebrows at his naming for the 4 Nations Face-Off<\/a>. But Bennett put any NHL rumours to bed with his strong play. While he didn\u2019t light up the scoresheet, he did play a key physical role and provided plenty of gritty shifts.<\/p>\n That\u2019s something that Team Canada will certainly need at the Olympics. But as Friedman pointed out, there\u2019s a possible answer to the NHL rumours surrounding Bennett\u2019s snub:<\/p>\n \u201cI was just shocked at no Bennett. I just\u2026 two Stanley Cups, scored a goal in the championship game last year, Conn Smythe Trophy winner, 15 goals in the playoffs.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n But Friedman\u2019s reasoning went beyond Bennett\u2019s impressive resume. He added:<\/p>\n \u201cIt sounds like they went to 19 of the 22 skaters, and they basically said, \u2018Jon Cooper<\/a>, you know, who do you want?\u2019\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Nevertheless, NHL rumours aside, here\u2019s the most enlightening portion:<\/p>\n \u201cI think the coach should get a couple of picks. And it sounds like it came down to basically, three of Bennett, Horvat, Cirelli, and Suzuki. And they went with the other three.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cI was just shocked at no Bennett.\u201d@FriedgeHNIC<\/a> on Sam Bennett\u2019s omission from the Olympic team. pic.twitter.com\/bGiDvHaPXK<\/a><\/p>\n — Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) December 31, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n