The Florida Panthers
The Florida Panthers are a professional ice hockey team based in Sunrise, Florida. They play in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League (NHL). The Panthers were founded in 1992 and began playing in the NHL in the 1993–94 season.
A Mixed History
The Panthers have had a mixed history since their inception. They have made the playoffs eight times, but have never won a Stanley Cup. However, they have had some success in the regular season, winning the Atlantic Division title in 1996-97 and 2022-23.
Florida Panthers Star Players
The Panthers have also had some star players over the years. Some of the most notable players to wear the Panthers jersey include:
Pavel Bure: Bure was one of the most exciting players in the NHL during his prime. He was a two-time scoring champion and led the league in goals in 1999–2000.
Roberto Luongo: Luongo was the Panthers’ starting goaltender for 10 seasons. He was a two-time Vezina Trophy finalist and helped the Panthers reach the Stanley Cup Finals in 1996.
Jonathan Huberdeau: Huberdeau is the Panthers’ current leading scorer. He has won the Lady Byng Trophy twice and has been named to the NHL First All-Star Team once.
The Panthers have had a long and interesting history. They have had some success, but they have also had some disappointments. However, the Panthers are a popular team in Florida and they continue to be a force in the NHL.
Florida Panthers Key Moments
Here are some of the key moments in the Panthers’ history:
1992: The Panthers are founded by H. Wayne Huizenga.
1993: The Panthers begin playing in the NHL.
1996: The Panthers win the Atlantic Division title and reach the Stanley Cup Finals.
1999–2000: Pavel Bure leads the NHL in goals with 59.
2003: The Panthers trade Pavel Bure to the New York Rangers.
2004: The NHL lockout cancels the entire season.
2011–12: The Panthers win the Atlantic Division title for the second time.
2022: The Panthers reach the Stanley Cup Finals for the second time in franchise history.
Final Thoughts
The Panthers are a team on the rise. They have a young and talented roster and they are poised to make a strong run at the Stanley Cup.