Panthers Cruise Past Red Wings 8-1 in Season Finale

Florida scores 4 goals in the 2nd period to pull away in the last game of the year.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 1:55am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the kinetic energy and scoring action of an NHL hockey game, with players' faces and logos dissolving into vibrant splatters of paint.The Panthers' offensive explosion in the season finale showcases the team's firepower as they look to defend their back-to-back Stanley Cup titles.Today in Detroit

The Florida Panthers scored 8 goals, including 4 in the 2nd period, to cruise to an 8-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings in the final game of the 2025-26 NHL season. Lucas Kunin had 3 points, and Grigori Benning scored his first 2 NHL goals for the Panthers, who won their last 3 games of the year. The Red Wings, who missed the playoffs for the 10th straight season, got a goal from Justin Faulk in the loss.

Why it matters

While the game had no playoff implications, it provided an opportunity for younger players like Benning to showcase their skills as the Panthers look to build on their back-to-back Stanley Cup championships. For the Red Wings, the loss capped another disappointing season as the franchise continues to search for a return to the postseason.

The details

The Panthers jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the 1st period on a goal by Vinnie Hinostroza. They then scored 4 goals in the 2nd period, including a pair from Benning, to take a commanding 5-0 lead. The Red Wings got on the board late in the 2nd with a goal from Faulk, but the Panthers pulled away in the 3rd with 3 more goals, including 2 from Kunin.

  • The game was played on April 15, 2026, the final day of the NHL regular season.
  • The Panthers scored 4 goals in the 2nd period to take a 5-1 lead.

The players

Lucas Kunin

A forward for the Florida Panthers who had 3 points in the game, including 2 goals.

Grigori Benning

A defenseman for the Florida Panthers who scored his first 2 NHL goals in the game.

Justin Faulk

A defenseman for the Detroit Red Wings who scored their lone goal in the game.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to see some of our younger guys step up and contribute in the final game. Benning has been working hard all season and it was nice to see him get rewarded with a couple goals.”

— Paul Maurice, Head Coach, Florida Panthers

The takeaway

While the game had no playoff implications, it provided an opportunity for the Panthers to end their season on a high note and for younger players to gain valuable NHL experience as the team looks to defend their back-to-back Stanley Cup championships. For the Red Wings, the loss was another disappointment in what has been a difficult decade-long playoff drought for the storied franchise.