Here are five standout games to circle on the Florida Panthers’ 2025‑26 schedule, blending signature moments, emotional narratives, and national spectacle:
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1. Oct 7: Blackhawks at Panthers – Season Opener & Banner Raising
The Panthers begin their title defense at Amerant Bank Arena, lifting their second consecutive Stanley Cup banner before a home opener against the Chicago Blackhawks. A major event to kick off the season, drawing huge attention from fans and media alike .
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2. Oct 21: Panthers @ Bruins – Brad Marchand’s Boston Return
Brad Marchand returns to TD Garden for the first time since being traded to Florida. After overcoming injuries and impacting his former team en route to another Cup, this emotional matchup is a media highlight and a must-watch for Panthers and Bruins fans alike .
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3. Nov 22: Oilers at Panthers – Stanley Cup Final Rematch
Florida hosts Edmonton in what has become the most anticipated rivalry of the past two years. With back-to-back Cup Final matchups between the clubs, this rematch promises drama, physical play, and playoff-style intensity in November .
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4. Jan 2: Rangers at Panthers – 2026 Winter Classic in Miami
History in the making: the Panthers’ first-ever outdoor NHL game, held at Miami’s LoanDepot Park, as part of the iconic Winter Classic series. A celebration of their championship status on a grand outdoor stage against the Rangers. Sunshine, rink and spectacle → unforgettable .
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5. Mar 19: Panthers @ Oilers – Only Regular-Season Visit to Edmonton
The only time Florida plays at Rogers Place this season. Following consecutive deep playoff runs, this road game continues the fierce Panthers–Oilers rivalry out west and serves as another potential Stanley Cup preview .
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🏒 Why These Games Matter
Ceremony & history: Opening night banner-raising against Chicago is pure spectacle.
Emotional subplots: Marchand facing Boston injects personal and narrative weight.
Rivalry heat: Two high-stakes Panthers–Oilers clutches replicate playoff drama.
State-of-the-art novelty: A Winter Classic in Miami brings hockey to a new frontier.
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Additional highlights worth watching:
Battles vs. Tampa Bay for in-state bragging rights and playoff veins.
Return to Toronto in early January as Leafs unveil new-look roster post postseason exits .
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With banner-raising pomp, playoff rematches, personal feuds, and h
istoric outdoor ice—it’s a season you won’t want to miss.
