Trump Hosts Florida Panthers at White House for Cup Win

President Donald Trump hosted the Florida Panthers at the White House on Thursday to celebrate the team's second consecutive Stanley Cup championship, praising their achievements while making lighthearted remarks about the United States' longstanding edge over Canada in the sport.

The ceremony in the East Room marked the second such visit for the Panthers in less than a year, following their first title win in franchise history in 2024. The team defeated the Edmonton Oilers in the finals for the second straight season, prevailing in six games this year after a seven-game series victory the previous season. Trump highlighted the Panthers' remarkable playoff run, including 94 goals scored, a record 10 road wins and holding the lead for more than 255 minutes in the finals, the longest such streak in NHL history.

"It's an honor to welcome to the White House the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers: unbelievable team, unbelievable athletes, players," Trump said. He noted their three consecutive finals appearances, including a five-game loss to the Las Vegas Golden Knights in 2023, calling the players responsible for the greatest feats in franchise history...