This is feeling like a pretty special season for the Florida Panthers, and it shows in the standings.
Most importantly, Tuesday ended with the Panthers officially taking the Atlantic Division title thanks to their 4-1 win against the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning’s tough loss to the New York Rangers.
The Cats are looking frisky heading into the playoffs, too, with four straight wins and victories in six of seven games. They generated some serious milestones in the process:
The @FlaPanthers (46-25-9, 101 PTS) have eclipsed 100 points in a season for the first time in franchise history. pic.twitter.com/uv7sV16vs3
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) April 6, 2016
The @FlaPanthers have clinched top spot in the Atlantic Division, the franchise's second division title (2011-12: 1st in Southeast Division)
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) April 6, 2016
That 2011-12 season was pretty funky, so it’s probably reasonable to argue that this is the Panthers’ best season since John Vanbiesbrouck was standing on his head.
(Aside: the Lightning can take heart in at least seeing their playoff spot clinched, even if they’re cemented behind Florida.)
Plenty of eyes were on the Panthers as they attempted to lock up the Atlantic, but others couldn’t help but survey John Scott’s return to the NHL.
He didn’t really make a big difference in the box score, yet Scott did enjoy a moment or two:
Apparently this is it for Scott and the Canadiens:
Habs gave him the option and John Scott is heading home to Michigan. His season is over.
— Arpon Basu (@ArponBasu) April 6, 2016
#Habs Scott met the media with moist eyes, saying he was emotional as the game ended, not knowing what his hockey future might hold.
— John Lu (@JohnLuTSNWpg) April 6, 2016
This is probably the end in the NHL for John Scott.
— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) April 6, 2016
John Scott was asked what he would be most proud of if indeed his NHL career was over. pic.twitter.com/IlRQqBWB1M
— Arpon Basu (@ArponBasu) April 6, 2016
Again, though, Tuesday was more about the Panthers and some guy with insane skills and funny tweets.
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— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) April 6, 2016
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