The Stanley Cup has made its way back to Canada. Over recent weeks, this iconic trophy has been showcased at various locations across North America. The Stanley Cup Finals started on the ice in Edmonton and concluded with the Florida Panthers defeating the Edmonton Oilers for the second consecutive year. Following intense celebrations and some minor repairs to the Cup, it traveled to Los Angeles for the NHL Draft. Now, the Cup is heading north again, but instead of going to Toronto’s Hockey Hall of Fame, it will be spending time in Montreal.
Phil Pritchard, the Stanley Cup Keeper, shared that the trophy was taken to the HHOF’s official silversmith in Montreal to have the 2025 Florida Panthers’ name engraved on it. To have their name on the Cup, players must have participated in at least 41 regular-season games or played in at least one Stanley Cup Final game. Teams can also request exceptions for players who don’t meet these criteria. Last year, Florida successfully petitioned to include Jonah Gadjovic and Josh Mafra. This year, the Panthers may petition for Nico Sturm, who was acquired late in the season and played a crucial role despite limited game appearances.
Uniquely, this is the third year that engraving occurs before the Cup begins its summer tour with the winning team, allowing new champions to celebrate with the trophy that already bears their names. Like last year, it will be exciting to see how the Panthers celebrate their victory with the Stanley Cup in the weeks and months ahead.
Fan Take: This news highlights the deep tradition and honor behind the Stanley Cup, making it not just a trophy but a living symbol of hockey excellence. For fans, seeing the Cup travel and engage communities reinforces the sport’s rich history and connection to its passionate followers, promising more memorable moments for years to come.
