Florida will celebrate Hornqvist's career on Dec. 8 when they host the Pittsburgh Penguins

Patric Hornqvist has been with the Florida Panthers organization for only a few short years, but he’s still left quite the impression.

Originally acquired in a trade prior to the 2020-21 season, Hornqvist was the first player brought in by then-new General Manager Bill Zito in his plan to change the culture with the team, from the locker room to the front office.

Hornqvist was a perfect first piece to that puzzle.

His drive and work ethic are legendary among those who have been around him, and it’s no coincidence that the Panthers have been on an upward trajectory since his arrival.

Florida has also made the playoffs each season Hornqvist has been a part of the franchise, and despite not being able to play, he was right there practicing and training with his teammates through their remarkable run to last season's Stanley Cup Final. 

An unfortunate string of injuries led to Hornqvist’s early retirement, but that hasn’t stopped him from continuing to work his tail off while helping Florida’s players train and prepare while working with injured players as they rehabbed from their respective injuries.

He was officially named part of the Panthers front office earlier this year as scouting and development consultant.

Now he’s set to be honored by the franchise in front of its home fans.

The Panthers are going to hold a special pre-game ceremony on Friday, Dec. 8 to celebrate Hornqvist’s career and accomplishments.

“Patric’s leadership and unparalleled competitive drive helped to shape the spirit of the Florida Panthers today,” Zito said in a statement released by the team. “He is beloved here in South Florida as well as in Pittsburgh, Nashville, Sweden and throughout the National Hockey League, and we are excited to celebrate his decorated career.”

It’s fitting that Florida will be hosting the Pittsburgh Penguins on the night they honor Hornqvist.

Before joining the Panthers, Hornqvist played 407 of his 901 NHL games with Pittsburgh, helping the Penguins win back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2016 and 2017.

Details about the ceremony have yet to be released, but fans attending that night will want to be in their seats early. The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. puck drop at Amerant Bank Arena. 

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