Panthers Ink Mike Benning

     The Florida Panthers have signed defenseman Mike Benning. It is a three-year, entry-level contract between him and the club. He was selected by the Florida Panthers in the fourth round of the 2020 NHL Draft. 

     He had been with the University of Denver for the last three seasons. Benning captured an NCAA Division I national championship with the Pioneers in 2022 and was named the Most Outstanding Player in the Frozen Four. Benning was fourth with 13 goals and tied for fifth with 34 points among defensemen this season. 

     Benning and his family have roots in the National Hockey League. His father Brian Benning played his final two NHL seasons during the Florida Panthers first two NHL seasons in 1993-94 and 1994-95. He had 31 points in 97 games with Florida. His older brother Matt Benning is currently playing with the San Jose Sharks in his seventh NHL season.