In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Panthers coach Paul Maurice maintains a straightforward and effective approach to his daily routine. Early starts, plenty of coffee, and a reliance on his assistant coaches are key components of his strategy. He joins meetings when necessary and consistently communicates clear messages to his players, occasionally using colorful language to make his point. This method has proven successful.
Maurice is now in his third consecutive Stanley Cup Final with the Panthers, demonstrating a style that ranges from lighthearted and humorous to smart and serious. His playoff record before joining Florida was 41-51; it has since improved to 41-21 with the team. Although Maurice was already a respected figure in the hockey world before coming to Florida, he had never experienced a streak quite like this.
Reflecting on his coaching tenure, Maurice acknowledges the Panthers as the strongest team he’s led, stating, “The team here, this is the best team I’ve ever coached. It’s not really that close.” Florida was victorious in last year’s Stanley Cup and is now gearing up for another title run, starting Wednesday night with a rematch against Edmonton in Game 1. The Panthers defeated the Oilers last year in a tightly contested seven-game series, securing Maurice’s first Cup win in his lengthy 30-year career.
As Maurice and his team embark on another potential championship win, there’s a light-hearted game of tug-of-war between the coach and his players. The athletes aim to downplay accolades for reaching a third straight Cup final, while Maurice emphasizes their achievements, attributing his role to merely pressing a few buttons. In truth, the success is a shared effort.
Forward Matthew Tkachuk praises Maurice for maintaining a balance and ensuring the team remains hardworking. “He keeps things light, but he expects us to work our hardest,” Tkachuk said. Maurice’s ability to energize the team, whether for a high-stakes game or a mid-season matchup, is seen as a unique gift. His motivational speeches are concise, often mixing tough conversations with affirmations of support.
Maurice also doesn’t shy away from humor, often centering himself in the jokes. When discussing how the Panthers went from a dominant 122-point team before his arrival to a 92-point team in his first season, he quipped, “Coaching.” This drop was due to strategic shifts that eventually led to their Cup finals success.
Seth Jones, a defenseman who joined the Panthers at the trade deadline, adapted quickly to Maurice’s distinct coaching style. Despite the change, Jones found it beneficial, noting Maurice’s knack for gauging team dynamics and his timely use of humor to ease pressure. “He’s very smart. I think he understands what the team needs at any given time,” Jones observed.
This adaptability is crucial, as evidenced by last season’s Cup series. The Panthers were initially dominant, winning the first three games before losing the next three and facing potential collapse. Maurice’s message of playing with freedom inspired a flawless Game 7 performance, ultimately securing victory. During the championship parade, Maurice celebrated exuberantly, emphasizing the concept of freedom.
Tkachuk appreciates Maurice’s consistent approach, treating all players equally and fostering a respectful and hardworking team culture. “He’s been a great coach and we’re super lucky to have him here,” Tkachuk remarked. The Florida Panthers continue to thrive under Maurice’s leadership, eagerly anticipating their next challenge.