Back to the Top News Newsfeed

Rest was the priority for Panthers down the stretch, and now the Cup champs seek a playoff payoff

1 / 2

Sabres Panthers Hockey

Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice talks to referee Michael Markovic (31) during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Buffalo Sabres, Saturday, April 12, 2025, in Sunrise, Fla. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

(ASSOCIATED PRESS)

TIM REYNOLDS

·

3 min read

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Florida coach Paul Maurice didn't care about which team the Panthers drew for Round 1 of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Didn't care about whether that series would start on home ice or not. Didn't care about finishing first, second or third in the Atlantic Division, either.