NHL fans stunned as Panthers, Hurricanes coaches ignore handshake after playoff series ends
NHL fans stunned as Panthers, Hurricanes coaches ignore handshake after playoff series ends (Image Source: Getty Images)
The Florida Panthers beat the Carolina Hurricanes. That win ended the Hurricanes' season. Players and coaches basically line up and shake their hands after the final game of a playoff series.
This time, the coaches did not. Panthers coach Paul Maurice and Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour stayed behind. They did not go out to join the handshake. Some fans also saw them talking in a tense way after the game ended.
Panthers, Hurricanes Coaches may have had a disagreement
Usually, when the last game ends, all players and coaches line up. They shake hands to show respect. It is a tradition in hockey. Even if the games are rough, players and coaches still show good sportsmanship.
The two head coaches, however, kept away this time. They might have had a little disagreement or argument. Though we are not sure what they spoke to each other, their manner did not appear warm.
People watching the game were surprised. This kind of thing does not happen often. Fans and reporters asked why the coaches did not shake hands. Some were upset. Others thought it was fine.
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Fans are supporting Coach Maurice
Many fans said Coach Maurice was right.
They said the handshake is for the players only. The players do all the hard work. They play the game, block shots, and fight for the win. Some people said it's okay for coaches to skip the handshake.
But other fans said no. They said coaches should lead by example. Even when it is hard, they should show good behavior. They said the handshake is about respect, and coaches should show that too.
Neither coach gave a full answer after the game.
They only talked about the season and their teams. Maurice said he was proud of the Panthers. Brind'Amour said his team played hard all year.
Now the Panthers are going to the Stanley Cup Final. They lost in the final last year but now have another chance. The Hurricanes are out. Their season is over.
The handshake moment is still being talked about. Some say it was rude. Some say it's no big deal. But everyone agrees playoff games are full of emotion. Sometimes, things don't go the usual way.
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