Sam Bennett will miss the start of the regular season.

The Florida Panthers got some tough news over the weekend, with one of their top forwards injured before the season officially gets underway.

A report from Florida Panthers insider George Richards has revealed that former first round pick Sam Bennett is dealing with a significant injury , one that will cost him the start of the season and perhaps more beyond that. According to Richards, Bennett was spotted in a walking boot over the weekend and comments made by head coach Paul Maurice all but confirmed he wouldn't be ready to go come the season opener.

The head coach of the Florida Panthers described the injury as "longer than day to day, doubtful for opener" which would line up with Bennett being fitted with a walking boot.

Bennett has played a pivotal role for the florida Panthers since joining the franchise and last season was no exception, with Bennett record 16 goals and adding 24 assists for 40 points over just 63 regular season games with the Panthers. It will be all but impossible for the Panthers to replace his pressence in their starting lineup.

Stay tuned for more details on this developing story.