The atmosphere at the Yard House, a bar right across the Amerant Bank Arena, was electric Wednesday night as Florida Panthers fans packed in to hopefully witness history unfold in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final.
In Sawgrass Mills, one of the nations largest and most profitable shopping centers, the high-energy place buzzed with anticipation and excitement.
In a state better known for sunshine than ice, the Panthers dismantled the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 and won their second straight Stanley Cup.
Fans proved that hockey fever has taken hold here in South Florida at bars like the Yard House. The place was a rallying ground for a passionate fanbase that has grown louder and prouder with each postseason run.
With chants of “back to back” echoing through Sawgrass Mills and lifelong fans shedding tears of joy, the Panthers historic run ignited a deep sense of pride and unity across South Florida.
The tension was in the air from the drop of the puck, and it quickly erupted when Sam Reinhart opened the scoring in the first four minutes of the first period. The crowd roared with every Panthers save and shot, but each goal was met with an explosion of cheers and high fives.
As the second period ended screams echoed through the bar of “back to back” chants. Even a bathroom break offered a chance to assess fan enthusiasm. The celebration continued as the Panthers increased their lead. The game was absolutely Reinhart’s as he dropped 4 goals. With the Panthers leading 5-1 and four minutes remaining in the third period, chants of “We want the cup!” began.
For Nicholas DuPont, 22, the win held special meaning.
“I’ve been Panther fan since 2009-10,” Dupoint said. “I cried when the Panthers won the cup last year.” He also praised Barkov and recognized Brad Marchand. “They were crucial impact in the final and the whole reason we have now been to 3 straight and are now back to back champions.”
As the final horn sounded, cheers and celebrations erupted at Yard House, marking the end of a season of dedication and teamwork. The Florida Panthers secured their second consecutive Stanley Cup title.
