Florida Panthers’ Stanley Cup: What Happened to This Iconic Trophy?

The Florida Panthers have once again claimed the Stanley Cup, marking their second consecutive championship. In an exciting Game 6, they defeated the Edmonton Oilers 5-1, bringing the trophy home once more.

During a celebratory ceremony, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman presented the iconic trophy to team captain Sasha Barkov, who led the team in a joyful parade around the ice. However, soon after their victory, photos surfaced showing that the trophy had sustained some damage. Not only was the bottom of the cup injured, but the iconic bowl also appeared torn.

The Cup, known for its rich history of 133 years, is often treated with affection on special occasions. Yet, players have a reputation for using it in rough and comical ways. They often celebrate by drinking beer and champagne from it, and sometimes even place babies or food inside. Phil Kessel once filled the cup with hot dogs after a win, adding to the trophy’s quirky history. Players have used it for various foods, from poutine to pasta. In fact, previous winners have managed to dent the Cup during celebrations, like Nicolas Aube-Kubel of the Colorado Avalanche in 2022, who dropped it during a photo op.

The Stanley Cup has seen its fair share of misadventures over the years. Since its inception, the trophy has been lost and even thrown into the Rideau Canal after the Ottawa Silver Seven captured it in 1905. Its storied journey makes each moment with the Cup significant.

After their victory, the Panthers celebrated by taking the Cup to the Elbo Room in Fort Lauderdale, showcasing their triumph with fans. They also announced a Championship Celebration set for Sunday with a parade along A1A, culminating in a rally at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park.

As sports fans, we can appreciate the history and charm of the Stanley Cup. It’s not just a trophy; it’s a symbol of hard work, teamwork, and some wild celebrations. Each dent tells a story, making it one of the most unique trophies in sports history.

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Gary Bettman, Phil Kessel