Lightning's Cooper: Bennett's hit on Coleman was 'predatory'

Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper called out Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett for his check on Blake Coleman in Game 1 on Sunday night.

Cooper said it was a "predatory hit," according to NHL.com's Brian Burns.

Awful hit by Bennett on Coleman that is worthy of a major penalty. Charging + boarding. Only gets two minutes.. pic.twitter.com/Arg2Qz6gRx

- NHL Safety Watch (@NHLSafetyWatch) May 17, 2021

Bennett received a two-minute minor for charging on the play, and the penalty marked a significant momentum shift in the game. Brayden Point scored on the ensuing power play to tie the contest in the third period, and then he potted the game-winner just under six minutes later.

Game 2 is set for Tuesday night at 8 p.m. ET.

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