Panthers advance; this Whalers fan loves it
Knicks in do-or-die. Red Sox in free fall
Good morning, all!
There are many Florida Panthers fans in Connecticut, and not because there are many snowbirds in the Nutmeg State either. The defending Stanley Cup champion Panthers are coached by Paul Maurice, a former player and coach of the Hartford Whalers. Maurice, who coached the Panthers to the title last year, is poised for a repeat. And it could not happen to a nicer person.
The fact Maurice has Whalers lineage adds to the following in my home state. It’s been nearly 30 years since the Whalers hightailed it out of here and moved to North Carolina, but their brand name and loyal following remains. Hartford Whalers merchandise is still among the NHL’s biggest sellers.
Now throw in the fact the Panthers easily disposed of the Carolina Hurricanes in five games to advance to the finals, winning 5-3 last night, and you have the perfect storm for scorned Whalers fans.
In what could be a repeat of last season’s finals, the Panthers await the winner of the Edmonton-Dallas series. The Oilers lead the set, 3-1. Game 5 is tonight in Dallas.
Here are some other DAN ON SPORTS top stories for Thursday, May 29, 2025:
No handshake line after Panthers-Hurricanes finale
OKC destroys Timberwolves, 124-94. Win series in five. Next stop: NBA finals
Knicks in do-or-die situation tonight. Host Pacers in NBAECF, down 3-1.
Red Sox in free fall. Drop fifth straight. 11 down in loss column to archrival Yankees
Manny Ramirez wants to become an MLB coach
Yankees sweep Angels. Washington refuses to pitch to Judge
Cavs might break up team
Royals, Chiefs stadium issues reach boiling point
‘26, ‘27 Breeders’ Cup locales announced
Ouch! Ratings stall for Coca Cola 600 on PRIME
Thank you for subscribing.
DAN