SUNRISE — The NHL unveiled the Florida Panthers Quarter Century team on Friday, selecting the top 12 players from the team’s past 25 years. To qualify, players had to have been part of the Panthers as of January 1, 2000, which meant many of the team's original stars from the 1990s were not eligible for inclusion.
Among those who were eligible is Robert Svehla, who many regard as the best defenseman in the franchise's history, making the second team. Although Svehla did not join the Panthers until the team's second season, he played a key role during their run to the Stanley Cup Final in 1996.
The first team features Aaron Ekblad and Gustav Forsling as defensemen, with forwards Sasha Barkov, Jonathan Huberdeau, and Matthew Tkachuk topping the ranks. Barkov, the Panthers' captain since 2018, has set franchise records for games played, goals, assists, and points, making him one of the most dynamic players on the roster.
Joining Svehla on the second team are current Florida winger Sam Reinhart, former captain and leading scorer Olli Jokinen, and legendary goal-scorer Pavel Bure. The goaltender honors went to Hall of Famer Roberto Luongo on the first team, with Stanley Cup champion Sergei Bobrovsky representing the second team.
These selections were made by a panel comprising media members, retired players, and executives associated with the Panthers. Florida Hockey Now even invited fans to weigh in with their selections, polling readers prior to the official announcement. That ballot resulted similarly, showing strong preferences for the outstanding talent the team has cultivated over the years.
Providing recognition to franchises is part of the NHL's initiative to honor the athletes who contributed to their team's legacy. The fan vote will also play a role soon, as it will determine the NHL's overall Quarter-Century Team, comprising 25 players from all 32 franchises, slated to occur from February 12 to February 26.
What stands out about this edition of the Quarter Century team is the strong presence of current players who helped lead the Panthers to their first-ever Stanley Cup championship last season.
Looking closely at the individuals selected, Barkov emerged as Florida's offensive powerhouse since becoming their captain. Under his leadership, the Panthers have had remarkable successes, highlighted by a run to the Stanley Cup Finals and clinching the trophy against Edmonton last year. Tkachuk, who was brought to the Panthers via a blockbuster trade, has rapidly established himself as one of the franchise's premier forwards with consistent scoring.
Along with the players selected to the Quarter Century teams come stories of perseverance and triumph. For example, Jokinen spent 567 games with the Panthers, amassing 419 points, making him one of the league's mainstays during his career. His impact with the Panthers continues to be recognized, underscoring the level of talent within the organization.
Meanwhile, Ekblad, the No. 1 overall pick from the 2014 NHL draft, remains the longest-serving defenseman on the team and has been pivotal to their defensive structure. Known for his ability on ice, he remains among the elite blue-liners today.
Forsling has risen through the ranks since coming aboard through waivers and showcases how opportunities can lead players to success. His stats reflect the caliber he has brought to the Panthers, making him one of the top defensemen since joining the club.
Luongo, known for his illustrious career and incredible saves, left an indelible mark with the Panthers, earning much respect and recognition during his tenure. His stats places him among the league's all-time great goaltenders, having secured numerous wins and accolades throughout his career.
This recent event not only commemorates the past and present of the Florida Panthers but also sets up expectations for the future, with fans eagerly participating to shape the league's recognition of talent.
With much anticipation, the Panthers’ roster and legacy continue to evolve as the team looks forward to the upcoming seasons and possibly stacking more successes. The NHL's platform provides the franchise with visibility and relevance, celebrating players both past and present.
Next for the Panthers is their upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, which will be held at the Amerant Bank Arena. Fans are encouraged to tune in with the local TV and radio broadcasts to cheer on their favorites.