Panthers won Stanley Cup, but Sam Bennett and Aleksander Barkov just etched even more prestigious NHL honors
The Florida Panthers may have lifted the Stanley Cup for the second straight year, but the spotlight didn't stop there. While the Cup toured across South Florida and beyond, Panthers standouts Sam Bennett and Aleksander Barkov quietly added their names to more legendary NHL trophies this summer, cementing their places in hockey history.
Sam Bennett wins
Conn Smythe
, Aleksander
Barkov
adds Selke and King Clancy to his legacy
After a dominant playoff run, Sam Bennett was honored with the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Florida center scored 15 postseason goals—more than anyone else—and delivered when it mattered most, notching eight goals in the Panthers' final six road games.
Shortly after earning the Conn Smythe, Bennett signed a massive eight-year, $64 million contract extension to stay with Florida.
It was a move that showed the team's commitment to keeping its championship core intact and keeping Bennett's momentum rolling.
Aleksander Barkov earns Selke and King Clancy for excellence
At the same time, Aleksander Barkov added two more major honors to his already impressive resume. The Panthers captain was awarded his third Selke Trophy, given to the NHL's top defensive forward. Known for his calm presence, elite puck control, and all-around play, Barkov remains one of the most respected two-way players in the league.
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But it was Barkov's impact off the ice that earned him the King Clancy Memorial Trophy. The award celebrates leadership and community work—both of which Barkov has shown in abundance. Since the 2019–20 season, he's pledged $1,600 for every goal and $800 for every assist to Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital. To date, he has donated more than $400,000.
Barkov and Bennett recognized as true champs beyond Stanley Cup win
When he found out about the King Clancy honor, it was the children from the hospital who delivered the news, a fitting tribute to a player who's made such a difference in their lives.
Also Read:
Sidney Crosby trade rumors intensify as Canadiens and Avalanche emerge as top contenders
This summer wasn't just about lifting the Stanley Cup. For Bennett and Barkov, it was about being recognized as leaders, playmakers, and people who define what a winning culture looks like—on and off the ice.
FAQs
Q1: What trophies did Sam Bennett and Aleksander Barkov win after the Stanley Cup victory?
Sam Bennett won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Aleksander Barkov earned his third Selke Trophy for best defensive forward and the King Clancy Memorial Trophy for leadership and humanitarian efforts.
Q2: Why did Aleksander Barkov receive the King Clancy Trophy?
Barkov was recognized for his exceptional leadership and charitable work, particularly his donations to Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital. Since 2019, he has pledged money for every goal and assist, contributing over $400,000 to the hospital.
Q3: How many goals did Sam Bennett score in the 2024 NHL Playoffs?
Sam Bennett led all players in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs with 15 goals, including scoring in Florida's final six road games, a key factor in earning the Conn Smythe Trophy.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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