Florida Panthers Celebrate Stanley Cup Win with New Names on Trophy!

Fort Lauderdale, USA - The Florida Panthers have once again made history by clinching the Stanley Cup for the 2024-25 season, marking their second consecutive victory and solidifying their place in the annals of hockey glory. The names of the victorious team have been beautifully engraved on the prestigious trophy, with a total of 53 names now etched into its gleaming surface, which includes 25 players this season. The excitement surrounding this achievement is palpable throughout the state, and fans are celebrating every moment.

Among the list of first-time engravers are notable talents such as Nate Schmidt, Jesper Boqvist, AJ Greer, Vitek Vanecek, and Seth Jones, any of whom could easily be stars in the making. Interestingly, Mackie Samoskevich is also being recognized this year despite not playing in the postseason last season; he is sure to be one for hockey enthusiasts to keep an eye on in future matches. While all these fresh names add to the excitement, some well-known figures like Patric Hornqvist and Bryan McCabe have not made the cut this time around. In addition, players from last year’s championship squad who won’t be displayed this season include Braden Birch.

A Celebration of Team and Unity

The engraving ceremony commenced with the Panthers’ owner, Vincent Viola, and his family, leading to the inclusion of significant figures such as CEO Matt Caldwell and head coach Paul Maurice. Team captain Aleksander Barkov’s name shines as the first of the 24 players listed, followed closely by his teammates in alphabetical order. This year, 14 players received their names for the second time, while forwards like Carter Verhaeghe and Brad Marchand became legends, the latter gaining his second engraving after winning with the Boston Bruins in 2011. Marchand continues to showcase his expertise on the ice while also forming a connection with goalie Vitek Vanecek, who makes his first appearance on the Cup.

The Panthers also announced several new support staff members whose names will accompany the trophy. Professionals like Dakota King, Thomas ‘Train’ Anderson, and others now sit among the engravings. However, it’s worth noting that Doug Cifu, the Vice Chairman and Alternate Governor, will not be included this season due to an NHL-imposed suspension during the playoffs.

Honoring the Legacy of Champions

Fans can take pride as the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto has unveiled a new exhibit highlighting the Stanley Cup champions. Items contributed by the Panthers are showcased, including game-worn jerseys from players such as Sergei Bobrovsky, Niko Mikkola, and Jonah Gadjovich. Also on display are skates, gloves, and even goggles worn during the post-game celebrations by Matthew Tkachuk. Phil Pritchard, Keeper of the Cup, shared photos and excitement over the important commemorative effort. This exhibit, which has just opened its doors, provides a fantastic opportunity for hockey aficionados to connect with the team’s storied legacy.

This latest triumph has set a tone of celebration across Florida, as the Panthers continue to bask in the glory of their achievements, blending teamwork and excellence. The engraving of names is not merely a formality but a testament to the bond and dedication that these athletes and their staff share, truly embodying the spirit of hockey in our community. For every fan out there, this is not just about names on a trophy, but about history being made year after year.