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‘They Brought A Little Juice’: Paul Maurice Sticking With Line Featuring Sam Bennett Centering Tkachuk Brothers

Paul Maurice is unleashing the bruising trio fans craved, betting on the Tkachuk brothers’ chemistry and Sam Bennett’s grit to spark the Panthers’ offense in Buffalo.

By David Dwork · The Hockey News

Published: Sunday, 11 October 2026 at 6:11 PM

Key Things to Know

Paul Maurice plans to keep Sam Bennett centering brothers Matthew and Brady Tkachuk against the Buffalo Sabres.
The physical trio debuted briefly during the third period of Florida's 4-1 loss to the Minnesota Wild.
Maurice noted the group forechecks well and brings heavy physical play without creating a defensive cost.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice plans to keep Brady and Matthew Tkachuk together on a forward line centered by Sam Bennett. The trio first skated together at even strength during Saturday's 4-1 home-opener loss to the Minnesota Wild. Maurice kept the physical combination intact during Sunday's practice ahead of Monday's road game against the Buffalo Sabres.

Maurice praised the unit's forechecking and heavy style, noting that they brought energy despite limited ice time against Minnesota. The shift also coincides with Maurice giving Sam Reinhart playing time at center on another line alongside Carter Verhaeghe and Sam Lafferty.

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