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.

Latest News

Kucherov, MacKinnon, McDavid in close pursuit of Art Ross Trophy

Mailbag: Kucherov among trophy favorites; Flyers headed in right direction

Frondell gets assist in NHL debut, Blackhawks hold off Islanders

Blue Jackets top Flyers, move into 2nd in Metropolitan Division

Dobes makes 41 saves, Canadiens rally past Hurricanes

Senators stay red-hot, hold off Red Wings to move into East wild-card spot

McDavid scores 400th NHL goal for Oilers

Necas scores twice, Avalanche cruise past Penguins for 3rd straight win

Capitals shut out by Blues, lose ground in wild-card race

Jack Hughes scores twice, Devils hold off Stars

Panthers recover, edge Kraken in shootout in Maurice's 2,000th NHL game

Forsberg has 3 points, streaking Predators top Sharks for 5th straight win

Scheifele has 3 points, Jets defeat Golden Knights to keep pace in wild card

Lightning surge past Wild, gain ground in Atlantic race

Stolarz helps Maple Leafs defeat Bruins following injury scare

NHL Status Report: Chabot to be 'out a while' for Senators with injury

Frondell makes NHL debut with Blackhawks against Islanders

Hagens signs AHL tryout agreement, Bruins 'keeping all options open'