In the lead-up to Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, the Florida Panthers are set to tie the NHL record for the most games played in a three-year span, marking their 309th game. Their journey to the Final means they’ve played more hockey than most teams, which has been both tiring and exhilarating. Head coach Paul Maurice believes both the Panthers and their opponents, the Edmonton Oilers, will bring heightened energy to the series, despite the grind of the regular season.
Players Sam Reinhart and Gustav Forsling have emerged as notable figures in this marathon of games, each participating in 303 contests over the last three years. They are on track to surpass Phil Kessel’s all-time record for the most games played in a three-year span. Forsling acknowledges the effort required to maintain peak performance, emphasizing the importance of preparation and mental breaks.
As the series progresses, the Oilers will also ascend the ranks of games played, with Game 1 serving as their 300th game in three years. Both teams boast incredible depth, notable for having 19 different goal scorers throughout the playoffs. Leon Draisaitl from the Oilers attributes their success to this depth.
The Panthers, known for their rigorous training camps and daily strength and conditioning, have logged substantial travel, nearing 67,000 air miles this season. They’re committed to maintaining a culture of health and performance, with players prioritizing fitness over traditional post-game celebrations. The shift represents the team’s evolution, focused on maximizing their competitive edge as they strive for the championship.
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