Stephen Weiss

Lore & Background

Weiss played his major junior career with the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), recording 66 points in his rookie season and 87 points in his sophomore season. He was drafted fourth overall by the Florida Panthers in 2001 and made his NHL debut on April 2, 2002, his 19th birthday, scoring his first goal that night against the Pittsburgh Penguins. His early NHL seasons were marked by injuries and inconsistent playing time, including a broken toe, a knee injury, and a broken tibia. He also spent time with the Panthers' AHL affiliate, the San Antonio Rampage, during the 2004–05 NHL lockout, leading the team in scoring. Weiss's breakout season came in 2008–09 under head coach Peter DeBoer, his former OHL coach, when he played a career-high 78 games and recorded a career-high 47 assists. He set a Panthers franchise record on February 23, 2012, by playing in his 614th game with the team. After 637 career games without a postseason appearance, Weiss helped the Panthers qualify for the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, scoring his first two postseason goals in Game 4 against the New Jersey Devils. He signed with the Detroit Red Wings on July 5, 2013.

Reader's Guide

Weiss's significance lies in his long tenure with the Florida Panthers, where he became the franchise leader in games played and assists. Despite being drafted fourth overall in 2001, his early career was hampered by injuries and coaching instability, including a contentious relationship with head coach Mike Keenan, who publicly questioned his readiness and played 'mind games' with the young player. Weiss's perseverance through multiple injuries—a broken toe, knee injuries, a broken tibia, and a wrist injury requiring surgery—defined his time in Florida. His most productive seasons came after the 2004–05 lockout, particularly under Peter DeBoer, when he posted career highs in assists and goals. Weiss's 2012 playoff appearance, after 637 regular-season games without one, marked a milestone for both him and the franchise. His move to the Detroit Red Wings in 2013 represented a new chapter, though his later career was less prominent. Weiss's legacy is that of a durable, skilled centre who set foundational records for the Panthers organization.

Did You Know?

• Weiss made his NHL debut on his 19th birthday, April 2, 2002, and scored his first goal that night against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
• Weiss was drafted fourth overall in the 2001 NHL entry draft by the Florida Panthers.
• He played 637 career games before making his first Stanley Cup playoff appearance in 2012.