Hurricanes Coach Brind'Amour Plans Return to Handshake Lines After Eastern Final Dispute

Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour plans to return to participating in the traditional handshake line at the conclusion of playoff series, reversing his recent decision to skip it at the request of Florida Panthers coach Paul Maurice. Maurice advocated for limiting the handshake line to players only, arguing that the ritual should focus on those who were actually on the ice, highlighting the visual impact and respect for the players' efforts. Brind'Amour, while understanding Maurice's perspective, values the handshake line as a sign of respect and gracious losing, and views it as an important moment to connect with players, including former players he has coached. Despite following Maurice's lead after the Panthers eliminated the Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Final, Brind'Amour emphasized the handshake line's significance for coaches as well. Maurice expressed appreciation for Brind'Amour's cooperation but plans to continue his player-only handshake tradition. Brind'Amour ultimately believes that coaches and staff, though not on the ice, are integral to the team and deserve to participate in the handshake line as a mark of respect.