Panthers Prospect Report: March 13, 2026

Updates on players in the pipeline throughout the season

Mar. 13, 2026 at 4:24pm

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The Florida Panthers' Prospect Report is back as the final stretch of the regular season nears. The report highlights the debut of defenseman Mike Benning, who earned his first career NHL point with an assist in his first game. The report also provides updates on other top prospects in the Panthers' system, including goaltender Tyler Muszelik's strong season at the University of Connecticut.

Why it matters

The Panthers' prospect pipeline is crucial to the team's long-term success, as they look to develop young talent to complement their NHL roster. This report provides fans with an inside look at the progress of the organization's top prospects across various leagues.

The details

Mike Benning, a 2020 fourth-round pick, made his NHL debut on Thursday against the Columbus Blue Jackets, logging 16:49 time on ice and earning his first career point with an assist on Sam Reinhart's overtime winner. Benning has been stellar in the AHL this season, leading all Charlotte Checkers defensemen in goals (8), assists (23), points (31), and shots (110). Meanwhile, 2022 sixth-round pick Tyler Muszelik has been impressive in net for the University of Connecticut, posting a .929 save percentage, which ranks sixth in the nation.

  • Mike Benning made his NHL debut on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • Tyler Muszelik posted a career-high 50 saves against Maine on Feb. 14, 2026.

The players

Mike Benning

A 2020 fourth-round (95th overall) pick by the Florida Panthers, Benning is a defenseman who has been stellar in the AHL this season, leading all Charlotte Checkers defensemen in several key categories.

Tyler Muszelik

A 2022 sixth-round (189th overall) pick by the Florida Panthers, Muszelik is a goaltender who has been impressive in net for the University of Connecticut, posting a .929 save percentage, which ranks sixth in the nation.

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What they’re saying

“Everyone made me feel welcome and just going out, a lot of emotion out there. It's a dream come true.”

— Mike Benning (Florida Panthers)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This report highlights the continued development of the Florida Panthers' prospect pool, with promising young players like Mike Benning and Tyler Muszelik making strides in their respective leagues. The organization's ability to identify and nurture talent will be crucial to their long-term success.