Sergei Bobrovsky calls third final ‘a blessing’ as Panthers eye another NHL title

A big thing is happening in Florida, and hockey fans are feeling the buzz. The Florida Panthers are back in the Stanley Cup Final, and it’s not the first time. In fact, it’s their third straight year playing for the Cup. With the team full of energy and hope, fans are waiting to see if history will be made once again.On Sunday, June 2, 2024, Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky spoke after practice at the Baptist Health IcePlex in Fort Lauderdale. He shared his thoughts on the Panthers reaching the Stanley Cup Final again. “It’s a blessing to be in the Final three years in a row,” he said. “We passed three really good teams. Now, it’s a big challenge ahead.”Having beaten the Carolina Hurricanes in five games during the Eastern Conference Final, the Panthers clinched their place. Next, they face the Edmonton Oilers. This is a rematch from the 2023 final. Florida won that series and hopes to win again this year.With this latest win, the Panthers became the ninth team in NHL history to reach the Final in three straight seasons. Only two teams have done that in the last 40 years, Florida and Tampa Bay. This groups the Panthers among famous names like the New York Islanders, Detroit Red Wings, and Montreal Canadiens.Also Read: “They're A Really Good Team”: Florida Panthers Prepare For Intense Stanley Cup Final Rematch Against Fiery Edmonton OilersStar forward Matthew Tkachuk said the team thought about this moment all summer. “You think about the chance to compete again,” he said. “It’s hard to get here. Not many players get that chance even once.”Head coach Paul Maurice has led the Panthers in all three Final runs. He said something felt different about this team from the very start. “I don’t feel like I’m the reason,” he said. “These guys are just built differently. It’s been fun to watch.”Since 2022, Florida has played more games than any other NHL team, 308, including playoffs. They also have the most playoff wins in that time, with 41 victories. Maurice said the players know how to lead themselves, and he steps in only when needed.As Florida gets ready for Game 1, the goal is clear—bring the Stanley Cup back to South Florida one more time.