Florida wasted no time opening the scoring. On the power play, a severe defensive breakdown by the Predators left Sam Reinhart and Bennett alone in front of the Predators’ Juuse Saros (21 saves); Reinhart dropped the puck for Bennett to easily bury 1:23 into the contest.

Nashville Predators captain Roman Josi did not return for the third period against the Florida Panthers after taking a hit by Sam Bennett.

Everybody gets their depth tested over the course of the year. Usually, if you’ve handled it right, you find out some really good things.’

Forward Steven Stamkos, who signed a four-year deal with Nashville in the offseason, is currently in the longest point-less streak of his career — he has gone nine games without a point for the first time in his 17-year career.

Nashville Predators' coach Andrew Brunette expressed frustration about Sam Bennett's hit that injured team captain Roman Josi.

- The Panthers have won three straight regular-season games against the Oilers. - The Panthers own a 5-1-0 record over their last five home games. - The Panthers own a 14-3-1 record when Sam Bennett scores a goal. - Sam Reinhart is tied for first on the Panthers with 15 multi-point games.

Sam Bennett had a goal, assist and fight for a Gordie Howe hat trick, and Gustav Forsling and Mackie Samoskevich also scored to help the Panthers win for the third time in four games.