Panthers fans welcome back Kraken forward Samoskevich with ovation

In return with Seattle, player who was part of back-to-back Cup teams cheered

SEA@FLA: Panthers fans salute Samoskevich in his return to Florida

By Dan O'Leary

@DanOLeary25 NHL.com Staff Writer

October 18, 2026

The Florida Panthers welcomed back a member of their back-to-back Stanley Cup champions on Saturday.

Fans at Amerant Bank Arena gave a huge ovation to Seattle Kraken forward Mackie Samoskevich, playing in Sunrise for the first time as a visiting player.

The team also played a short tribute video which included his first NHL goal and highlights of his first three NHL seasons, including raising the Cup.

Good to see you, Samo!

Forever our Stanley Cup Champion. pic.twitter.com/gTpkX6t7Xk
— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) October 17, 2026

Samoskevich's rookie season was during 2023-24 where he didn't see much action but the Panthers went on to win their first Cup franchise history, defeating the ]Edmonton Oilers in seven games. His second season is where he endeared himself to fans, registering 15 goals and 16 assists in 72 games during the regular season. The Panthers defeated the Oilers in six games to cap off that season.

Samoskevich signed a three-year contract with the Kraken in July.