FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers open their 2025-2026 season Tuesday evening with a unique moment of celebration: raising their second consecutive Stanley Cup banner before the puck drops at Amerant Bank Arena.
For players, coaches and fans, it is both a celebration of last season’s success and a reminder that the work ahead is just beginning.
The Panthers held an optional morning skate Tuesday at Baptist Health IcePlex in Fort Lauderdale as preparations ramped up for the early puck drop at 5 p.m.
Center Anton Lundell, speaking to reporters before the game, reflected on last year’s opening night.
“I just remember last year — it’s probably the most electric game in my regular seasons so far,” he said. “You kind of look back at what you achieved, but at the same time, it gives you more hunger to do it again. It’s a special group; it’s a celebration, but it’s also turning the page to a new chapter.”
Defenseman Seth Jones echoed the sentiment, noting the challenge of balancing the emotions of raising a banner with the focus needed for the season ahead.
“I think it will be up there forever and knowing that it’s a special group. It’s a celebration but at the same time, it’s a turning of the page and something we want to get to early is our game and trying to get that tip top shape,” Jones said.
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The Panthers are dealing with injuries early in the season.
Forward Tomáš Nosek (Non-roster injured list) and Matthew Tkachuk (lower body) will miss the start of the season, while captain Aleksander “Sasha” Barkov suffered ACL and MCL injuries just over a week ago in training camp and is expected to miss seven to nine months.
Head coach Paul Maurice said the team will need to adopt a playoff mindset from the start, even without some of their key players.
The Panthers aim to continue their dominance and pursue a third straight Stanley Cup, with players and fans alike hoping the banner raising is just the first of many highlights in a long season.
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