Former Detroit player Jeff Petry didn’t need to think about it when the Florida Panthers called to ask if he wanted to join their roster for the 2025-26 NHL season.

He has been trying to win a Stanley Cup for his entire 15-season NHL career, and he’s not going to find a better opportunity than joining a Panthers team looking for a third consecutive Stanley Cup title. It’s hard to believe, but Petry, 37, has only been in the playoffs four times in his career.

In George Richards’ story at Florida Hockey Now, Petry said reaching the Stanley Cup Final with Montreal in the 2021 Covid season, only to lose to Tampa, makes him want the prize even more.

“That was also an important part of my decision (to sign with Florida), wanting to be in the playoffs, wanting to compete for a Stanley Cup again,’’ Petry said. 

“And you know that feeling of being really close in Montreal, and then losing in the Final, that was a tough feeling. I always said before my career is over, I want to be able to be in that position again, and be on a team that can compete for a Stanley Cup. And I think coming to Florida gives me a very good opportunity to do that.’’

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Paywall story: Trey Augustine stayed at Michigan State because he had unfinished business. To subscribe to DHN+ stories, click here.

GM Steve Yzerman still hopes he can upgrade his roster with a move or two.

Bob Duff asks why the Red Wings felt they needed Mason Appleton. 

Red Wings Extra

Neither Tyler Motte, nor Craig Smith has found a new home yet after not being offered a new deal by Detroit. From the Grand Rapids team, Tim Gettinger Joe Snively and Brogan Rafferty have  not been offered anything that has been reported.

Hockey Now Network

Boston: Bruins willing to wait on first-round draft pick James Hagens. Boston Bruins.

Montreal: Marc Dumont projects what Montreal’s defensive pairing will look like in 2025-26. Montreal Canadiens.

New Jersey: Former Sharks player Tomas Bordeleau feels as if he is receiving a fresh start with the New Jersey Devils.

Pittsburgh: Dan Kingerski gives the Penguins a “B” grade for  the start to their offseason roster remodeling. Pittsburgh Penguins. 

San Jose: Scouts weigh in on how much better defensemen additions make the San Jose Sharks. This is a paywall story. If you subscribe to DHN+, then you can read paywall stories from the other Hockey Now sites. To subscribe to DHN+, click here.