Florida Legislature Officially Commends Panthers for 2025 Stanley Cup Win, Recognizes Barkov and Bennett

This legislative resolution is straightforward: it’s a formal, official congratulations to the Florida Panthers hockey team for winning the 2025 Stanley Cup Final. It’s essentially the government taking a moment to give a big, ceremonial high-five to the team.

The resolution specifically notes that the Panthers secured their second championship on June 17, 2025, after defeating the Edmonton Oilers in the Final. It also calls out the team’s impressive 47-win, 246-goal regular season and lists the entire playoff gauntlet, which included beating the Tampa Bay Lightning, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Carolina Hurricanes before the final series.

The MVP Shout-Outs

While the resolution celebrates the entire team, it makes sure to highlight a couple of standout players. It formally recognizes Aleksander Barkov for making history by winning both the Selke Trophy (best defensive forward) and the King Clancy Memorial Trophy (community leadership) in the same season. Additionally, it gives a nod to Sam Bennett for earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Most Valuable Player of the entire 2025 playoffs.

What This Means for the Rest of Us

Since this is a ceremonial resolution, it has zero impact on your taxes, your commute, or any regulations affecting your job or business. It doesn't change any laws, allocate any funds, or create new government programs. Its sole purpose is to provide official state recognition for a major sports achievement, which is a common function for legislative bodies.

The Final Procedure

The resolution wraps up by directing the Secretary of the Senate to send official, enrolled copies of this commendation to the key figures in the Panthers organization. This includes the team’s owner, Vincent Viola, and his family, as well as the President and CEO, Matthew Caldwell, and the President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, Bill Zito. So, if you’re a Panthers fan, this is the state government formally saying, “We see you, and congrats.” If you’re not a fan, you can rest easy knowing this bill won’t affect your daily life one bit—unless you happen to be one of the executives receiving the official paperwork.