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The Florida Panthers were founded by then-Blockbuster owner Wayne Huizenga. They began playing in the 1993–94 NHL season, where they set the then-record for the most successful expansion team until the Vegas Golden Knights in 2017–18. Their first game was played on Oct. 6, 1993, against the Chicago Blackhawks, which resulted in a 4-4 tie. They have made the playoffs on nine occasions, including two trips to the Stanley Cup Final, in 1996, which they lost to the Colorado Avalanche, and in 2023, which they lost to the Golden Knights.

NHL Rumors: Lightning, Panthers, Jets, Islanders

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Tampa Bay Lightning GM Julien BriseBois updated the media on the status of contract negotiations with Steven Stamkos. Meanwhile, Sam Bennett is close to a return for the Florida Panthers. What will happen with the Winnipeg Jets after being eliminated from the playoffs? Who stays and who goes? Finally, will the New York Islanders make big roster changes? BriseBois Hopeful for Deals with Stamkos and Hedman Julien BriseBois spoke about Steven Stamkos and his future with the Lightning when the GM opened his avail this morning with Tampa-based media. He heaped praise on Stamkos’ play…

Sergei Bobrovsky Is a Worthy Vezina Trophy Finalist This Season

The Florida Panthers are moving on to the second round of the postseason as they defeated their in-state rival in the Tampa Bay Lightning four games to one in the first-round series. They wait until the conclusion of the Toronto Maple Leafs/Boston Bruins series to see who they will face in the second round. One of the biggest pieces that got them to this point in the season was goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. He ended the regular season with a 2.37 goals-against average (GAA), a .915 save percentage (SV%), a league-leading six shutouts, and 36 wins. As a result of everything…

Today in Hockey History: April 30

April 30 has been a very eventful day in National Hockey League history. An errant pass temporarily derailed a dynasty, multiple epic comebacks were completed, and records were set across the league. Let’s begin our daily trip back in time to relive all the best moments this date has had to offer. Steve Smith’s Unforgettable Gaffe Steve Smith played in 804 NHL games on the blue line for the Edmonton Oilers, Chicago Blackhawks, and Calgary Flames, scoring 375 points. He was a three-time Stanley Cup winner with 134 games of playoff experience and was as steady as you could be…

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Panthers FAQ

What year were the Florida Panthers founded?

The Florida Panthers were founded in 1993 by then-Blockbuster owner Wayne Huizenga.

When did the Florida Panthers play their first game?

The Panthers’ first game was played on Oct. 6, 1993, against the Chicago Blackhawks, which resulted in a 4-4 tie.

Who is the current head coach of the Florida Panthers?

Paul Maurice is the current head coach of the Florida Panthers.