Florida Panthers celebrate championship title during NHL season opener
- The NHL announced its 2025 regular season schedule, featuring three opening matchups.
- The Florida Panthers will raise their championship banner and start their title defense against the Chicago Blackhawks.
- The event marks the beginning of the season and highlights the Panthers as two-time champions.
On July 14, 2025, it was announced that the Florida Panthers would kick off their NHL season on October 7, 2025, against the Chicago Blackhawks. This match, taking place at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, represents a significant moment for the Panthers as they will raise their second consecutive Stanley Cup championship banner prior to the game. This opening night will be part of a triple-header event that includes other games featuring notable teams such as the New York Rangers and Pittsburgh Penguins and the Los Angeles Kings against the Colorado Avalanche. The Panthers are also the two-time defending champions, securing their title in the previous two seasons, which adds to the anticipation surrounding their season opener. Following this initial game, the Panthers will have a three-game homestand in South Florida, playing against the Philadelphia Flyers and Ottawa Senators thereafter. Notably, the Panthers' schedule includes the Discover NHL Winter Classic on January 2, 2026, located at loanDepot park in Miami, marking a historic outdoor event as the southernmost in NHL history. The team will host a rematch of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers on November 22, 2025, while also visiting Rogers Place in Edmonton on March 19, 2026. Additionally, December will be the team's busiest month at home, with 10 of 15 games occurring at the Amerant Bank Arena.