Everblades Win 2026 Kelly Cup with 5-4 Double Overtime Thriller in Kansas City

The Florida Everblades claimed the 2026 Kelly Cup with a 5-4 double overtime victory over the Kansas City Mavericks in Game 6 of the ECHL Finals. In front of a standing-room only crowd of 5,786 at Cable Dahmer Arena, Florida captured its fifth all-time Kelly Cup title and extended its dominance in the league.

Cam Johnson was once again the difference-maker. The Everblades’ goaltender was named the June M. Kelly Playoffs Most Valuable Player for the third time in his career. Johnson posted a 16-3 record in the postseason with a 1.93 goals-against average and .921 save percentage. His performance in the Finals was nothing short of heroic, particularly in the closing moments of Game 6.

This victory marked the first time Florida has won the Kelly Cup on the road. The team had previously clinched four titles at home, but the 2026 championship was a hard-fought battle that saw the Mavericks take Games 1 and 2 to start the series. Kansas City never backed down, forcing multiple overtime games and keeping the series alive until the final minutes of Game 6.

Florida’s offense came alive in the third period and overtime. The Everblades scored two goals in the final frame and added the game-winner in the second overtime. The Mavericks fought back, scoring late in the second overtime period, but Florida sealed the win with one final goal to end the series.

The Everblades now hold the ECHL record with five Kelly Cup titles. Their four championships in the last five seasons speak to a program that has become a powerhouse in the league. Kansas City, meanwhile, will look to bounce back and build toward future playoff runs.

With the 2026 season now in the books, both teams will turn their attention to the off-season. Free agency and the draft will be key for the Mavericks as they aim to close the gap. For Florida, the challenge will be to maintain its dominance and continue setting the standard in the ECHL.