Panthers’ Rat Tradition Targets Marchand After Each Win

SUNRISE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers have revived a quirky tradition during their playoff run: tossing plastic rats onto the ice after victories, now specifically targeting their new teammate, Brad Marchand, a player known as “The Rat.”

This playful ritual kicked off after the Panthers’ triumph over the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals, where Marchand was showered with plastic rodents as he congratulated teammates. The tradition dates back to 1996 when then-Panther Scott Mellanby killed a rat during a game and went on to score two goals, coining the term “Rat Trick.”

“They’re shooting them as hard as they can,” coach Paul Maurice observed. “It’s funny as hell.” Marchand has often faced the label of “rat” throughout his career due to his agitating style on the ice, making this tradition feel like a natural fit since he was traded to Florida.

Teammate Evan Rodrigues explained how the tradition blossomed after Marchand’s arrival. “The first game he was here, we won, and we ended up doing it,” Rodrigues recalled. “And it’s just kind of become a little thing.”

The Panthers have continued this ritual during away games as well. Florida fans threw rats onto the ice at Lenovo Center after their Game 2 victory, giving Marchand an unexpected warm welcome. “They’re not flipping them at him,” Maurice said, highlighting the playful intensity of the postgame celebrations.

As playoff momentum builds, Marchand represents both a veteran presence and a light-hearted spirit for the Panthers. He has been instrumental on the ice, ranking second in points during the playoffs, and remains committed to maintaining team morale. “Even before Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, there were just as many chirps and jokes going around as in a preseason game,” Marchand noted.

As the Panthers push for a second consecutive Stanley Cup championship, the playful rat-throwing tradition continues to foster camaraderie among players. “It’s just one of those things that happens organically,” Marchand said as he braced for more rat attacks. The Panthers lead the series against the Hurricanes 2-0, with the next game scheduled in Florida.