The Florida Panthers are riding high on the waves of their Stanley Cup victory, but it seems the trophy has taken a bit of a beating during the celebrations. After clinching their second consecutive championship with a dominant win over the Edmonton Oilers, the celebrations have resulted in some noticeable damage to the iconic Stanley Cup: the bowl has sustained a crack, and the bottom has a dent.
Photos and videos circulating on social media capture the exuberant scene at Fort Lauderdale’s Elbo Bar, where Panthers players were seen reveling in their title triumph alongside enthusiastic fans. It wasn’t just about raising a glass; players were even pouring beer from the Cup, adding a memorable twist to their celebrations.
Responding to the trophy’s unfortunate condition, a spokesperson for the Hockey Hall of Fame has assured that the Keepers of the Cup are on it, planning to have the trophy repaired in time for the celebratory parade set for Sunday.
Celebratory accidents with trophies are hardly rare in the sports world. A notable example comes from 2011 when Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos dropped the Copa del Rey trophy from the top of a double-decker bus, only for the bus to run over it, leaving the trophy with a significant dent—a fittingly dramatic reminder of the highs and lows that accompany such triumphs.
The Stanley Cup itself has its fair share of wild stories throughout its storied history. For instance, the Montreal Canadiens almost lost it in a comical twist back in 1924 when one of their cars stalled on a hill. In the chaos of pushing the vehicle, they left the revered trophy behind, only to realize the oversight at the top.
Additionally, who could forget the moment when Kentucky Derby winner Go For Gin was photographed enjoying a snack out of the Stanley Cup at New York’s Belmont Park after the New York Rangers captured their own championship?
More whimsical tales include Kris Draper of the Detroit Red Wings who, following their 2008 success, placed his baby daughter in the Cup for a keepsake photo, only for her to provide an unexpected surprise. And let’s not overlook Josh Archibald of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who took “bathing” in the Cup to the next level by baptizing his son in it, capturing a heartwarming moment that fans will surely talk about for years to come.
Regardless of the trophy’s wear and tear, these moments add to the rich lore surrounding the Stanley Cup and serve as reminders that celebrations can often be as memorable as the championship itself. As the Panthers prepare to hit the parade route, fans will surely cheer not just for their victory, but for the stories that come along with it.
