Facts About the Florida Panthers

The Florida Panthers are a professional hockey team that was founded in 1993. They are a part of the Southeast Division of the National Hockey League's Eastern Conference, and currently play at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Florida. The franchise was originally awarded to Wayne Huizenga, but is currently co-owned by Allen Cohen and Bernie Kosar.

  1. First Season

    • During the 1993-94 season, their first in the NHL, the Panthers went 33-34-17 and finished with 83 points. It was the best season by a first-year club in league history.

    Playoff History

    • The Panthers first qualified for the playoffs following the 1995-96 season, when they reached the NHL Finals before losing to the Colorado Avalanche in four straight games. They also qualified for the post-season following the 1996-97 and 1999-00 seasons, but fell in the first round both times.

    First All-Stars

    • Goalie John Vanbiesbrouck and right winger Bob Kudelski were the first two players to represent the Panthers franchise in the NHL All-Star Game. Both were elected during the 1993-94 season, and Kudelski went on to score a pair of goals during the game.

    First Hat Trick

    • The first hat trick in team history was scored by left winger Johan Garpenlov. Garpenlov scored three goals against the Washington Capitals in a 5-4 victory on January 23, 1996.

    Season Scoring Records

    • Pavel Bure holds the single-season team records for most goals scored (59 in 2000-01) and most total points scored (94, 1999-00). The record for most assists in a single season (53) was set by Viktor Koslov in 1999-00.

    Goaltender Records

    • Roberto Luongo holds the records for most wins in a season (35, 2005-06), most shutouts in a season (7, 2003-04), most career shutouts (26) and most career wins (108). Craig Anderson owns both the team and the NHL record for most saves in a shutout victory (53, 2007-08).