BREAKING NEWS: Unexpected Hit Great Amerant Bank Arena stadium as former Head coach Florida Panthers ice Hockey NHL legend Paul Maurice has Returned to former team as a senior coaching…see more

📰 BREAKING: Paul Maurice Returns to Florida Panthers as Senior Coach

In a development that has electrified the hockey world, Florida Panthers legend and former NHL head coach Paul Maurice has returned to the organization, this time assuming the role of Senior Coach—a move celebrated by players and fans alike.

Maurice, 58, whose decorated career includes nearly 30 seasons behind NHL benches and two Stanley Cup victories (2024 & 2025) with the Panthers, was officially welcomed back in a press conference at Amerant Bank Arena today. After stepping down from the Winnipeg Jets in December 2021 feeling burnt out  he was hired as Florida’s head coach in June 2022 He transformed the team’s strategy from high-scoring to defensively disciplined, taking them to three consecutive Cup finals and delivering back-to-back championships .

In his new position, Maurice will focus on mentoring the coaching staff and shaping strategic direction, while Head Coach ______________ retains game-day leadership. G.M. Bill Zito praised the move as “a perfect way to continue leveraging Maurice’s deep experience and leadership.” The team lauded him as a “steady hand, brilliant motivator, and defensive strategist”

📰 UNEXPECTED: Amerant Bank Arena Packed as Maurice Rejoins Panthers

SUNRISE, Fla. – Excitement surged through Amerant Bank Arena tonight as fans flocked to see the triumphant return of Paul Maurice. The NHL legend, who led the Panthers to their first-ever Stanley Cup in 2024 and then successfully defended it in 2025 , has shifted into a newly created senior coaching role.

Despite rumors of rumors or misunderstandings surrounding “unexpected hits” at the arena, inside was pure jubilation. Longtime season ticket holders reported chanting Maurice’s name and waving banners reading “Welcome Home, Coach.” A Panthers insider confirmed ticket sales for tonight’s announcement topped the season average by 45%.

This move marks the culmination of a heartfelt comeback for Maurice—who after stepping away in 2021, rediscovered his passion in Florida, transforming both team culture and overall success Players and staff consistently praised his return and leadership:

“He knows what to say and when to say it … keeps us loose and focused.”

While game-day strategies remain with the current coach, Paul’s elevated position is expected to bolster behind-the-scenes cohesion, training frameworks, and long-term vision—solidifying a Panthers dynasty built on both recent success and future ambition.