Mike Benning D FLA Fri 3/13/26 1:57 PM
Mike Benning
D FLA
Benning logged a power-play assist in Thursday's 2-1 overtime win over the Blue Jackets.
EDGE Analysis
Benning helped out on Sam Reinhart's game-winning tally in overtime. This was Benning's NHL debut, and he was able to be a contributor right away. He should continue to get a look in a power-play spot while the Panthers await the returns of Uvis Balinskis (undisclosed) and Seth Jones (upper body).
Mike Benning D FLA Thu 3/12/26 9:42 AM
Mike Benning
D FLA
Benning was recalled from AHL Charlotte on Thursday.
EDGE Analysis
Following Thursday's move, Benning will have the opportunity to make his NHL debut after posting a solid trio of seasons in the AHL. Across 56 games with Charlotte this season, he has eight goals, 23 assists and 110 shots on net. The 24-year-old defenseman has been a steady contributor from the blueline with 89 points across 182 career games with the Checkers, which should help him carve out a role with the Panthers if his name is called upon.
Mike Benning D FLA Tue 1/13/26 10:55 PM
Mike Benning
D FLA
Benning scored a goal and added two assists in AHL Charlotte's 8-2 win over Springfield on Tuesday.
EDGE Analysis
Benning was limited to two points over his previous 10 outings. The defenseman is now at four goals, 17 points, 65 shots on net and 28 PIM over 34 appearances this season. Benning's development, at least on offense, has mostly stalled out since reaching the AHL, though at 24 years old, he could still find another level.
Mike Benning D FLA Sat 11/29/25 7:13 PM
Mike Benning
D FLA
Benning had two assists in AHL Charlotte's 5-3 loss to Toronto on Saturday.
EDGE Analysis
Benning has warmed up with a goal and five assists over his last six games. Still, he's at just nine points in 17 outings this season. He has not taken a step forward from last year's performance of 32 points in 54 regular-season contests. Until he shows more on offense, the undersized defenseman is unlikely to get a call-up to the Panthers.
Mike Benning D FLA Thu 8/14/25 11:10 AM
Mike Benning
D FLA
Benning signed a one-year, two-way contract with Florida on Thursday.
EDGE Analysis
The 23-year-old defenseman has yet to debut in the NHL. Benning spent last season with AHL Charlotte, potting nine goals and 23 assists in 54 regular-season contests. He could make his NHL debut this season, but will likely spend most of the season in the AHL.
Mike Benning D FLA Wed 4/12/23 2:08 PM
Mike Benning
D FLA
Benning signed a three-year, entry-level contract with Florida on Wednesday.
EDGE Analysis
Benning scored 13 goals and 34 points in 39 NCAA games with the University of Denver in 2022-23. He was seen in the Panthers' locker room after Tuesday's practice, according to David Dwork of The Hockey News, so it looks like he's joining the team right away. However, it remains to be seen if he'll make his NHL debut Thursday versus Carolina.