Olive: As many fans know, your father, Brian, was a member of the original Panthers team in 1993-94. What was it like having him in the stands and connecting with him after the game?
Benning: marvelous. I haven't seen him for a long time. I'm glad they succeeded. They missed their first class because of a flight [from Edmonton] A little later than expected. But they did it. I'm excited for them to watch as many as possible. We had a nice meal and caught up afterwards. marvelous.
Olive: Your brother Matt also played over 400 games in the NHL. Did he give you any advice before you debuted?
Benning: Yes, I talked to him. He and my father were two important mentors to me growing up. He just said, 'Enjoy it. Trust yourself, trust your instincts, and good things will happen. “They've been through it. That's a big help.
OLIVE: You must have been around 14-15 years old when your brother made his NHL debut. What do you remember about it?
Benning: I remember watching [on TV]. It's a beautiful moment. I'm happy for him. I've always looked up to him. I'm happy that I can start my NHL career as well.
OLIVE: We've seen several players from the AHL look very comfortable in their NHL debuts this season. How have the Charlotte Checkers prepared you?
Benning: I think the coaching staff and leadership demands a lot from you. Every day is an opportunity to get better. Jordy (Checkers head coach Jordy Kinnear) and his staff, they get everyone ready for the next step. Not just playing in the NHL, but being successful in the NHL. The other players and leaders are great at that and pushing us. Everyone is accountable to each other. We have some good stuff there.
Olive: After a whirlwind debut, how nice would it be to have a day off on Friday to catch your breath, reflect and spend more time with your family?
Benning: Yes, they persisted. It was a very cold day. We had lunch, played some cards, had dinner, and played some more cards. Not a lot has been done, but there is still a lot to do. It's great to have this time. It's also nice to relax after being so high.
Olive: I know you already know a lot of the guys in the locker room, but how good would it be to get to know them better on this upcoming four-game road trip?
Benning: very good. Hopefully I can connect with others and become familiar. Everyone here is great. It's been a long journey. Yes, I'm excited about it. I'm already letting the butterflies fly and hopefully we can continue to play well and get in the win column.
OLIVE: Obviously, you've spent your whole life waiting for your first game in the NHL. Now that you've finished playing it, what are your expectations for the second game?
Benning: Learn from it, grow from it, and get better from it. Hopefully I can move on and play good hockey.
