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Time of India
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Florida Panthers celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Brad Marchand artwork
Sergei Belski-Imagn Images The Florida Panthers added a scoop of humor to National Ice Cream Day on Sunday by sharing a playful piece of artwork featuring Brad Marchand. The illustration shows the veteran forward serving ice cream, a callback to a viral joke that emerged during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The post celebrated National Ice Cream Day by bringing back a lighthearted meme that fans have come to love. Brad Marchand ice cream meme gets spotlight on National Ice Cream Day To celebrate National Ice Cream Day, the Florida Panthers shared a playful illustration of Brad Marchand cheerfully handing out ice cream. The artwork was posted across the team's social media platforms, capturing the lighthearted spirit of the moment. The image ties back to a humorous moment from the Eastern Conference Final against the Carolina Hurricanes, when fans joked that Marchand had been eating a Dairy Queen Blizzard between overtime periods. What started as a funny observation quickly gained momentum online, turning into a quirky part of the team's playoff identity. Panthers' National Ice Cream Day post delights fans and fuels the fun By featuring Brad Marchand in a cheerful ice cream-themed illustration, the Florida Panthers tapped into the meme's popularity while giving fans another reason to celebrate. The post wasn't just clever, it showed how the team continues to engage with its community in playful, creative ways, even in the offseason. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like They Were So Beautiful Before; Now Look At Them; Number 10 Will Shock You Cash Roadster Undo Social media lit up with reactions, as fans enjoyed the humor and nod to past postseason antics. The post reinforced the strong bond between the team and its community, keeping the off‑season spirit lively and engaging. Moments like these help keep the energy high and the bond between team and fans strong. It was a simple gesture, but one that added another sweet chapter to the Panthers' unforgettable postseason narrative. A playful reminder of how small moments can connect teams and fans The National Ice Cream Day post didn't reference any specific win or title. Instead, it was a fun callback to a moment fans clearly enjoyed during a memorable playoff run. Featuring Marchand in the artwork added to the charm, reinforcing how even the smallest moments can bring fans and teams closer together. By sharing Marchand-themed artwork on National Ice Cream Day, the Florida Panthers showed that team spirit extends beyond the rink. The post blended humor, nostalgia, and creativity, offering fans a sweet reminder of how fun hockey can be, even in the off-season. Also Read: Brad Marchand reacts to 'big 3' tweet with viral photo of Panthers' third line Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
18-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Jaroslav Halak announces retirement after 17 remarkable NHL seasons
Jaroslav Halak announces retirement after 17 remarkable NHL seasons (Image Via Twitter) A career that saw Jaroslav Halak present 20 years of elite-level goaltending across the NHL came to an end at age 40. His goaltending presence would float quietly on the ice in times of great pressure, with an incredible career résumé filled with clutch postseason performances. With 295 wins, 53 shutouts, and two William Jennings Trophies to his name, Halak is considered one of the most reliable, resilient, and international goalies to ever grace both NHL arenas and international-level tournaments. Career of Jaroslav Halak in NHL: A matter of consistency and going clutch A march from a ninth-round selection in the 2003 NHL Draft to then being a stable presence amongst seven NHL franchises is a story that certainly brings inspiration. Over his 17 seasons, Jaroslav Halak played a total of 581 regular-season games (555 starts) and posted career averages of 2.50 goals-against and a save percentage of .915. How he could incorporate himself into different systems, be it Montreal, St. Louis, Washington, New York (Islanders and Rangers), Boston, or Vancouver, was a testament to his mental fortitude and technical steadiness in the net. Halak's zenith in the National Hockey League came in the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs by defending the Montreal Canadiens to their second year in the Eastern Conference Final after being named an eighth seed. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If you have a mouse, play this game for 1 minute Navy Quest Undo In the first round, Halak turned aside 131 of 134 shots over the last three games to enable the elimination of the heavily favored Washington Capitals. That playoff run is still one of the brightest moments in recent Canadiens history, showcasing Halak's ability to change the game when it really matters. Timeline and trophy awards that cemented the law-changing legacy of Jaroslav Halak Halak won the William Jennings Trophy twice, first with the Blues in 2011-12 and then with the Bruins in 2019-20, for being part of the defensive units that allowed the fewest goals in the respective seasons. Among Europe-born NHL goalies, he is 12th all-time in games played and 14th in wins, which is a testimony to being a top-tier goaltender for a very long time, going through all phases of an ever-evolving league. In Stanley Cup Playoff games, 39, Halak had a .919 save percentage and a 2.48 GAA, statistics that are most worthy and telling of his readiness under pressure. In between back-to-back Winter Olympic Games in 2010 and 2014, he also represented Slovakia. He was a key player in Team Europe finishing as runners-up in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Also Read: Nicholas Sykora signs with Owen Sound Attack to venture beyond his father's shadow With the retirement of Jaroslav Halak, one more era of glorified goaltending comes to an end. Though never very flashy, the never-faltering presence of this goaltender had commanded respect from his teammates, opponents, and fans. After hanging up his pads, Halak will be remembered for quiet brilliance and steely resolve, as well as being his nation's pride in hockey. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Mint
18-07-2025
- Sport
- Mint
Jaroslav Halak, former New York Rangers goalie retires after 17 NHL seasons; says 'I'll never put on the pads again'
Jaroslav Halak, veteran goaltender, announced his retirement at the age of 40 on Friday (July 18), closing a remarkable 17-year NHL career that spanned seven teams. Known for his clutch playoff performances and steady presence, the Slovak player will leave behind a legacy as one of Europe's finest goalies. Jaroslav Halak defied the odds to become a reliable NHL starter when he was drafted in the ninth round (No. 271) by the Montreal Canadiens in 2003. He played for seven teams, including Montreal, St. Louis, Washington, the New York Islanders, Boston, Vancouver, and the New York Rangers. His final NHL season was 2022-23 with the New York Rangers. During that time, he posted a 10-9-5 record in 25 games. In over 581 career games, Halak amassed 295 wins, ranking 14th among European-born goaltenders, with 53 shutouts and a 0.915 save percentage. Jaroslav Halak's one of the best performances was during the 2010 playoffs with Montreal. Trailing 3-1 against the top-seeded Washington Capitals, he delivered a historic performance, stopping 131 of 134 shots (0.978 save percentage) in the final three games to fuel a stunning seven-game upset. Montreal then defeated Pittsburgh before falling to Philadelphia in the Eastern Conference Final. In 39 playoff games, Halak recorded a 17-20 record, a 2.48 goals-against average (GAA), and a 0.919 save percentage, proving his ability to thrive under pressure. Jaroslav Halak's career peaked in 2014-15 with the New York Islanders, where he set a franchise record with 38 wins in 59 starts. In that season, he earned his only All-Star nod, posting a 2.43 GAA and six shutouts. He won the William M. Jennings Trophy twice for playing on the team allowing the fewest goals, sharing it with Brian Elliott (St. Louis, 2011-12) and Tuukka Rask (Boston, 2019-20). On the international stage, Jaroslav Halak played a significant role for Slovakia, starting at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and pushing his team to the bronze medal game. He also earned silver medals at the 2003 U18 World Championship and with Team Europe at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. After two years away from hockey, Jaroslav Halak told Slovak reporter Tomas Prokop, 'I'm done. I'll never put on the pads again.' He now focuses on family, supporting his children, Nathan and Inna, both aspiring goaltenders.
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Mario Lemieux-led group eyeing Penguins purchase, reports say they are 'very interested'
Penguins legend Mario Lemieux may return with ownership bid that could reshape the team's direction (Getty Images) Mario Lemieux, a name etched deeply into Pittsburgh Penguins history, could be preparing for a stunning return—this time off the ice. According to The Athletic, Lemieux is reportedly 'very interested' in buying back the Penguins alongside former co-owner Ron Burkle and ex-CEO Dave Morehouse, now serving as an advisor with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh Penguins could be back in the hands of Mario Lemieux in a dramatic ownership move This potential move follows Fenway Sports Group's (FSG) 2021 acquisition of the franchise in a $900 million deal. While FSG has maintained that it's only exploring a 'minority investment,' Lemieux's group is said to be actively evaluating financial options to regain control. 'We've seen the speculation, and as we've previously shared with media, Fenway Sports Group is currently engaged in a process to explore a potential minority investment in the Pittsburgh Penguins,' FSG said in a statement. However, many see this as an opening Lemieux could eventually capitalize on. The timing couldn't be more fitting. Since the franchise changed hands, the Penguins have struggled. Pittsburgh failed to reach the playoffs in the last two seasons after a 15-year streak, and ticket sales have dropped to just 91.4% of capacity, an all-time low in the Sidney Crosby era. With fan enthusiasm fading and on-ice performance waning, a return to Lemieux-led ownership could breathe new life into the franchise. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 무지티만 입어도 빛날 수 있는 기부반지 유어턴 링 굿네이버스 Undo Lemieux's legacy isn't just about goals and assists—it's about saving hockey in Pittsburgh. From leading the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup wins in 1991 and 1992, to stepping in with controlling interest when the franchise was bankrupt, Lemieux has twice resurrected the Penguins. He even returned to play in 2000, taking the team on an unexpected journey to the Eastern Conference Final while also serving as owner. With valuations of NHL franchises soaring—Forbes now pegs the Penguins at $1.75 billion—buying back the team won't come cheap. But Lemieux's group is reportedly hoping FSG will entertain a 'reasonable' deal, especially given the team's recent struggles and potential for league-wide revenue boosts from future expansion. Lemieux, who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1997 before his comeback, last suited up during Crosby's rookie season. He later watched Crosby lead the team to a Stanley Cup in 2009, under Lemieux's ownership. If this comeback materializes, it won't just be about business. For Lemieux, it's about passion, legacy, and rescuing the Penguins once more when they need it most. Also Read: "Lot of anxiety": Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau's sister opens up about 'anxiety' and heartbreak as she finally gets married after the tragic loss of both brothers For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Rod Brind'Amour believes in new core as Carolina Hurricanes add Nikolaj Ehlers and K'Andre Miller
The Carolina Hurricanes have made a statement this offseason by signing forward Nikolaj Ehlers and acquiring defenceman K'Andre Miller in a major trade with the New York Rangers. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now With veteran losses on the blue line and questions about scoring depth, the team acted decisively. Head coach Rod Brind'Amour is confident these moves could be what finally pushes Carolina past the Eastern Conference Final barrier. Rod Brind'Amour backs Nikolaj Ehlers and K'Andre Miller to power Carolina Hurricanes forward After falling short in the Eastern Conference Final for the third time in seven seasons, the Hurricanes knew change was needed. Brind'Amour has made it clear that the additions of Nikolaj Ehlers and K'Andre Miller were not just big names, but deliberate pieces to shape a new core capable of reaching the Stanley Cup Final. Ehlers, who signed a six-year, $51 million contract after a short wait in free agency, brings the kind of offensive talent Brind'Amour has long sought. 'It's already a great group that we have. Ehlers is a piece of that. For me, it's talent, and that's what Ehlers has. How it all fits, we will see when we get there,' he told Miller, acquired in a blockbuster deal that sent Scott Morrow and two draft picks to the Rangers, signed an eight-year, $60 million deal. At a $7.5 million cap hit, he becomes the team's highest-paid defenceman. With Brent Burns and Dmitry Orlov gone, Miller fills a major hole. 'We needed a top-end 'D,' and I feel like it was Miller,' Brind'Amour said. Carolina reshapes its roster with bold moves and a clear eye on the Stanley Cup The Hurricanes also saw winger Martin Necas leave as part of a deal to acquire Mikko Rantanen during the season, only to lose Rantanen in free agency. That made signing Ehlers even more critical. Brind'Amour sees him as a direct replacement for the scoring and versatility Necas provided. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now With the additions of Ehlers and Miller, the Hurricanes are betting on a refreshed identity. FanDuel currently gives them the second-highest odds to win the Stanley Cup in 2026 at +750, just behind the Florida Panthers. Rod Brind'Amour and the Carolina Hurricanes are not standing still. With significant changes to their core, including the high-profile additions of Ehlers and Miller, the team is banking on this offseason to finally break through and compete for a championship. Also Read:
