Zibanejad was involved in all of the team's goals in the game that ended 5–1. Zibanejad scored a goal in each period, and had an assist in the first and third periods.
This means that the 32-year-old Zibanejad became the first player to score a hat-trick in an outdoor match. He also became the first Swede to be awarded TNT's Cocoa Cup, which is awarded to the best player in an outdoor match.
"Thank you, I accept it with pride," said Zibanejad when former teammate Henrik Lundqvist hung the medal around his neck, Expressen writes.
Zibanejad was also selected for the Swedish Olympic squad on Friday. The championship will be played in Milan and Cortina, Italy, in February.
"It's hard to comprehend this day," says Zibanejad.
"But absolutely - a fantastic 12–16 hours. It's been a fun day."
The game against Florida was not only notable for Zibanejad's stellar performance, but was also played outdoors in Miami. It was the first time an NHL game had been played outdoors in the state of Florida, and it was also the southernmost NHL game ever played outdoors.
The outdoor temperature was 17 degrees, making it the second warmest outdoor NHL game ever after a game in Denver in 2016 when the temperature was slightly higher. Florida coach Paul Maurice called the entire event "spectacular" and noted that the ice held up to the heat.
