Maurice honored for coaching 2,000 NHL regular season games

Panthers coach becomes 2nd member of 2K club, receives ovation from crowd, tribute video

Paul Maurice ovation

© NHL

By Christopher Detwiler
@Chris_Detwiler NHL.com Staff Writer

Paul Maurice coached his 2,000th NHL regular season game on Tuesday, and Florida Panthers fans showed their appreciation for every single one (or at least the 315 he’s coached in Florida).

The Panthers head coach got a warm ovation from fans at Amerant Bank Arena during the first period of the team’s game against the Seattle Kraken, when Maurice was acknowledged for reaching the milestone.

While behind the bench, Maurice became just the second head coach in NHL history to reach the 2,000-game mark, joining legendary coach and Hockey Hall of Famer Scotty Bowman.

The Panthers also put together a tribute video for their coach which included congratulatory messages from players and coaches alike.

Maurice started his head coaching career in 1995 with the Hartford Whalers (which later became the Carolina Hurricanes) and also had stints with the Winnipeg Jets and Toronto Maple Leafs.

He joined the Panthers in the 2023-2024 season and has led the team to three consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances and back-to-back championships.

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