WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump celebrated the NHL champion Florida Panthers at the White House on Monday, focusing primarily on the team’s sports achievements while steering clear of discussions on tariffs. The ceremony began with a nearly hour-long delay, during which Trump conversed with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about trade issues. Eventually, the Stanley Cup, symbolizing the Panthers’ recent victory, was placed on the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office. Trump engaged with the players and Panthers owner Vinnie Viola, a close acquaintance, while receiving gifts that included personalized jerseys and a golden hockey stick.
During the event, Trump praised the Panthers’ impressive journey from losing the finals in 2023 to the Vegas Golden Knights to clinching their first-ever championship. He humorously likened their comeback to his own efforts to return to the White House. “You delivered an exhilarating comeback that will be remembered in NHL history, and in the history of sports,” Trump remarked, adding, “I don’t know much about comebacks, but I’ve heard great things.” The team gifted him a custom-made “Trump 45-47” jersey as well as a “Trump 47” jersey, with the honors presented by Viola, Finnish player Aleksander Barkov, and American player Matthew Tkachuk.
Viola expressed appreciation for Trump’s hospitality, saying, “We had to go with 45 and 47, right? We’ve brought a group of champions to visit a champion. Your generosity and the excellent treatment by your staff reflect the high standards you expect.” In 2016, Trump had briefly considered Viola for the position of Secretary of the Army before he opted out of the nomination process. Trump commended Viola’s achievements, saying, “He’s a champion in everything he’s done and holds a deep appreciation for the military.”
The President acknowledged the contributions of several team members, including goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, forward Anton Lundell, and Game 7 scorers Sam Reinhart and Carter Verhaeghe. He also praised Florida’s coach Paul Maurice and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, complimenting Bettman on an exceptional tenure exceeding 30 years in professional sports, which began with the NBA. “He has done an outstanding job,” Trump said, remembering his long-standing acquaintance with Bettman from previous leagues.
Shortly after the ceremony concluded, Trump announced a temporary freeze on tariffs affecting Canada and Mexico, lasting 30 days. Tkachuk, the sole American-born player remaining on the Panthers’ roster this season, expressed gratitude towards Trump for hosting the team. “As one of the few players who truly loves this country, this day is incredible for me,” Tkachuk stated. “I wake up every day thankful to be American, so thank you.”
The Panthers made this visit before their match against the Eastern Conference-leading Washington Capitals the following night. Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin is currently chasing Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record, a topic that Trump remarked on by mentioning his recent conversation with Gretzky. “Do you know Wayne Gretzky? Isn’t he known as the ‘Great One?’ He spoke of a man named Marty McSorley who protected him—I’ve heard he was a tough player, but that’s what Wayne thinks of him,” Trump shared.
