Connor McDavid makes his feelings known about 'pest' Sam Bennett ahead of crucial Stanley Cup Game 3

Ahead of the crucial Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final on Monday, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid didn’t shy away from acknowledging the relentless presence of Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett.

He is a player McDavid respects and knows well since their childhood days, when they were six years old. They used to play mini-sticks at hotel hallways during tournaments when they were traveling.

Speaking after Sunday’s practice at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, McDavid was asked whether Bennett has always been this much of a pest.

"Yeah, he's always played with an edge ever since he was a little guy," McDavid said (03:27). "So you know, nothing that we had, nothing that we haven't seen before. But he's playing really well, you know, scoring goals. He's good player, and we got to figure him out. So he's not going anywhere. We're not going anywhere."

McDavid and Bennett share a long history, having represented Canada together on the international stage, and more recently as teammates during the NHL 4 Nations Faceoff. Despite their strong off-ice friendship and mutual admiration, there's no room for sentiment in the intense final.

Bennett, who leads all players this postseason with 12 road goals, has caused chaos in front of Edmonton goalie Stuart Skinner throughout the series. His physical presence has sparked controversy, including a goalie interference penalty in Game 2 (Saturday) that led to an Oilers power-play goal.

However, Bennett said that he was pushed by Mattias Ekholm, and won't changing his approach.

"I was pushed," Bennett said after the game. "I think the goalie kicked out my heel that made me fall. I didn't agree with that. That's where I'm gonna be (in front of the net) for the rest of the series."

The crease battle is becoming central to this series. McDavid knows shutting down Bennett may be as important as solving Florida’s offensive pressure.

Sam Bennett's performance in Game 2 stood out

Sam Bennett scored a power-play goal early in Game 2 on Saturday. He now has 13 playoff goals, including 12 on the road, along with six assists in 19 playoff games. Bennett had two shots, four hits and two penalty minutes in the game. His strong play near the net continues to help Florida.

Game 3 is set for Monday, and with the series tied 1-1, a lot of eyes will be on the Oilers’ response. Some will also be on Bennett, who'll look to secure the best opportunities for his team.