Today, on March 13, 2026, excitement is brewing in Sunrise, Florida, as the Florida Panthers prepare for a thrilling matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets. The spotlight is particularly on rookie Mike Benning, who has been recalled from the AHL to make his NHL debut. This moment is not just significant for Benning, but also deeply personal, as his father, Brian Benning, was part of the Panthers’ inaugural team back in the 1993-94 season.
Mike Benning, the fourth-round pick (95th overall) in the 2020 NHL Draft, will wear number 20—previously donned by Brian Skrudland, the first captain of the Panthers. In his time with the Charlotte Checkers, Benning has impressed by recording 31 points (8 goals, 23 assists) in 56 AHL games this season. Tonight, he’ll be paired with veteran defenseman Niko Mikkola, bringing a mix of youth and experience to the ice.
A Game of Importance
This matchup is critical for both teams. The Panthers are coming off two consecutive wins, bringing their record to 32-29-3. They recently triumphed over the Detroit Red Wings with a nail-biting 4-3 victory, where Carter Verhaeghe scored two late goals. Additionally, Vinnie Hinostroza made a splash in his first game with the Panthers, contributing a goal and an assist. However, the team will be missing some key players, as Anton Lundell and Verhaeghe are sidelined due to fatigue, while Uvis Balinskis is replaced by the debuting Benning.
On the other side, the Blue Jackets hold a record of 33-21-10, just two points shy of the Boston Bruins for the second wild-card spot. They recently secured a 5-2 victory against the Tampa Bay Lightning, with Zach Werenski leading the charge for Columbus, boasting 68 points (20 goals, 48 assists) this season. This game marks the 65th of the Panthers’ season, and they have split their previous two meetings with the Blue Jackets.
Coaching Insights
Panthers head coach Paul Maurice has emphasized the importance of enjoying the debut experience for Benning. The rookie expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness, calling it a childhood dream come true. Maurice’s encouragement and the buzz surrounding the game set the stage for what is sure to be an unforgettable evening for Benning and the Panthers.
The game is set to take place at 7 p.m. ET at the Amerant Bank Arena, where fans will gather to support their team and witness Benning’s debut. As the franchise continues to build its legacy since its founding on June 14, 1993, this moment adds another chapter to the rich history of the Florida Panthers, who have seen their share of ups and downs, including reaching the Stanley Cup Finals both in 1996 and 2023.
For more details about Benning’s debut and the Panthers’ current season, be sure to check out the full article here and learn more about the franchise’s storied past here.