Panthers Resume Rat-Throwing Tradition Targeting Marchand in Playoffs

The Florida Panthers have embraced a unique playoff tradition involving plastic rats, which dates back to the 1995-96 season when captain Scott Mellanby killed a rat in the locker room and subsequently scored two goals, sparking fans to throw plastic rats onto the ice after goals and wins. This season, the tradition has evolved with the addition of Brad Marchand, nicknamed “The Rat,” who was traded to the Panthers from the Boston Bruins; teammates now actively shoot plastic rats at Marchand during postgame celebrations, a practice that has extended even to road games. Panthers coach Paul Maurice has expressed amusement at the ritual, noting the players throw the rats “as hard as they can” and finding the antics “funny as hell.” Marchand has been a key contributor to the Panthers’ playoff success, ranking second on the team in points and bringing veteran leadership and physicality to the roster. The plastic rat tradition, once causing game delays that led to NHL rule changes, remains a beloved and distinctive part of Panthers culture, with its new twist highlighting Marchand’s integration into the team’s spirited identity. This playful yet intense ritual has added to the colorful atmosphere surrounding the Panthers’ Eastern Conference finals run.