Florida Panthers Clinch 2023 Stanley Cup Playoff Spot

Just a matter of weeks ago, the Florida Panthers were on the outside looking in at the Eastern Conference Wild Card race, but after the Penguins faltered and the Panthers got hot, they've now officially clinched a spot in the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

After making the biggest move of the off-season by acquiring Matthew Tkachuk from the Calgary Flames, the pressure was on Florida for a deep playoff run, and now that they've gotten rolling, their first round matchup will certainly not be a cakewalk for whoever their opponent is. 

THE CATS ARE IN 😼

The @FlaPanthers have officially locked up a spot in the #StanleyCup Playoffs! pic.twitter.com/sylmJeQDQc

— NHL (@NHL) April 12, 2023

As of right now, the Panthers will matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round, but with so much changing, nothing will be locked in until the final night of the regular season, and if they can get their goaltending and defence matching up with the might of the offence, this is a team that no one wants to see. 

Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports