Dave Hyde: Can Zito and Panthers Conjure Needed Magic?

Two-time champion Panthers team looks to build off Zito's recent Olympic gold medal.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 11:54am

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In the wake of figure skater Isabelle Zito's recent gold medal win at the Winter Olympics, the Florida Panthers hockey team is hoping to channel some of that magic as they make a push for the playoffs. Zito, a Florida native, has been a longtime fan of the Panthers and the team is looking to capitalize on the renewed interest and excitement surrounding the local sports scene.

Why it matters

The Panthers have struggled to maintain consistent success in recent years, despite winning two Stanley Cup championships. Bringing in a high-profile local athlete like Zito could help generate more fan engagement and media attention, which the team hopes will translate to better on-ice performance down the stretch.

The details

Zito, who trains in Coral Springs, has been invited to drop the ceremonial first puck at the Panthers' next home game. The team is also planning a special promotion around Zito's Olympic achievement, including giveaways and in-game tributes. Head coach Paul Maurice is hopeful that Zito's presence and the community's renewed enthusiasm will provide a much-needed boost to the Panthers as they fight for a playoff spot.

  • Zito won the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics on February 18th.
  • The Panthers' next home game is on February 26th, where Zito will drop the ceremonial first puck.

The players

Isabelle Zito

A figure skater from Florida who recently won the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Florida Panthers

A professional ice hockey team based in Sunrise, Florida that has won two Stanley Cup championships.

Paul Maurice

The head coach of the Florida Panthers.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to have Isabelle join us and help generate some much-needed excitement around the team. Her Olympic gold medal is an incredible achievement and we hope her presence can provide a spark as we make a push for the playoffs.”

— Paul Maurice, Head Coach, Florida Panthers

What’s next

The Panthers will host a special promotion around Isabelle Zito's Olympic gold medal win at their next home game on February 26th, where she will drop the ceremonial first puck.

The takeaway

The Florida Panthers are hoping that by tapping into the local enthusiasm surrounding Isabelle Zito's Olympic success, they can generate renewed interest and energy around their own playoff push. This represents a creative strategy to leverage a high-profile athlete's achievements to boost a struggling professional sports franchise.