The Florida Panthers are celebrating their first NHL championship after defeating the Edmonton Oilers 2-1 in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Despite falling behind 3-0 in the series, the Oilers managed to win three straight games to force a decisive Game 7 in Florida. The Panthers struck first with a goal from Carter Verhaeghe, but the Oilers quickly answered with a goal from Mattias Janmark. Sam Reinhart’s goal late in the second period secured the victory for Florida.
This win marks an incredible turnaround for the Panthers, who lost to the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Finals last year. They are now the third team in the expansion era to win the Cup the year after losing it, and the fourth expansion team in the last 40 seasons to win the championship.
Following the historic victory, the sports world took to social media to congratulate the Panthers on their success. Teams like the Miami Dolphins, Inter Miami CF, Miami Heat, and Miami Marlins all sent out celebratory messages in support of the Panthers. Current and former athletes also chimed in with their excitement and congratulations for the new NHL champions.
With this championship win, the Florida Panthers have solidified their place in hockey history and have brought home the Stanley Cup to their loyal fans.