I went to Florida to watch playoff hockey! Panthers vs Edmonton

[@JetLagWarriors]

FLORIDA PANTHER FANS: How did you get into the sport of hockey? I'm very curious if you played growing up, maybe a certain player caught your attention, or one very exciting playoff run... Let me know!! because I was impressed with your enthusiasm! Thanks! Also: You can click here to watch a game of Swedish Elite League earlier this year: kzbin.info/www/bejne/anWuoICMrdRpoqM&ab_channel=JetLagWarriors Swedish fans are intense!

[@michaelmaniloff9297]

I was a kid during the Panthefs 96 Stanley cup playoff run. So much fun. Also, the Red Wings, Avalanche rivalry just made you love hockey.

[@michaelmaniloff9297]

I was a kid during the Panthefs 96 Stanley cup playoff run. So much fun. Also, the Red Wings, Avalanche rivalry just made you love hockey.

[@Juju12_18]

In 2013 my friend had an extra ticket and invited me to a game at that point in my life I knew next to nothing about the panthers let alone hockey. The speed, physicality and athleticism of the players got me hooked from then on and the Panthers organization honoring my mom’s military service during the 2021 season cemented me as a Panthers fan for life. LET’S GO PANTHERS

[@hestoncjr.3560]

Born and raised in South Florida here, my 2 favorite sports teams to watch, the Florida state Seminoles in cfb and the Florida Panthers in hockey Ironically enough when it comes to hockey, my dad, who has lived in Florida his whole played hockey in a league down here in South Florida made me like hockey. As a child I used to watch him play, that and also he was a huge Panthers fan and has been watching them since they first existed as a franchise. That being said, other then going to a few games when i was younger, I never really paid much attention to hockey until about late middle school/early high school, specifically in 2016 when the Panthers won the Atlantic division and began playing well. In the last few years, however, I began watching them religiously. They became a much more exciting team to watch with the new additions to the team. Me and my dad were at the game last night too btw and my dad was real emotional even though the series is a long way from over because he crossed out another goal in his bucket list to go to see a stanley cup final after 30 years of watching the Panthers. That and also being able to do it with me his now his 21 year old son.

[@Dave91127]

All of my family who r originally from Detroit Michigan played. I was born in FLA n grew up playing a lot of roller n a good amount of ice. Huge fan since way back in the Stephen Weiss David booth volkoun days. Can’t believe we are where we are right now

[@alexmnino]

The Florida Panthers have a tradition of fans throwing plastic rats onto the ice after a home win to celebrate goals. The tradition began in 1995 when, before a game against the Calgary Flames, forward Scott Mellanby killed a rat in the locker room with his stick. Mellanby went on to score two goals in the 4-3 win, and the team's goalie, John Vanbiesbrouck, joked that Mellanby had completed a "rat trick". At the next home game, a fan threw a plastic rat onto the ice after a goal, and the tradition has continued ever since.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Hey, thanks for this comment! This is a great story and I'm sure lots of the viewers here will not have heart it. An interesting read!

[@themoose0221]

And the mascot IS a panther, but since the rat is so entrenched in Panthers history they just ran with it and have a rat mascot too. The Panther mascot is known as Stanley C. Panther and the rat is known as Viktor E. Rat (victory rat).

[@michaelmohrle1773]

​@@themoose0221 Panthers are cats after all, and cats kill rats and mice so it fits !

[@darrellh4161]

@@JetLagWarriors kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6PUqoR9qcl0nKMsi=q0eT_Mzj6SVcVxjq

[@darrellh4161]

its cool too because its like cat vs mouse, just bigger, Panther vs rat

[@768lbman]

I love that you came to a home game and see the truth of how great our fanbase and arena has become. Everyone writes us off and it's getting old. Made some friends from Toronto during last years playoffs. Everyone is welcome.

[@vedanaanicca5557]

Its the Finns again doing us proud! Lundy, Barky, Mikkola and Luostarinen. Greetings from Helsinki, best from your Pelicans match friend Jarmo

[@JetLagWarriors]

Shoutout to you, Jarmo! And you're right, the Finns played great 😉

[@zikzak1234]

Barky is half Russian.

[@Drew-C-]

Panthers fans know that we have a lot of bros in Finland. Cheers Jarmo!

[@yiordanni]

Panther fan here… season ticket holder and at all these games… you’ve helped redeem some the Leaf fan base IMO (because we have plenty down here all across the spectrum of attitudes). Loved this video and commentary! I also sympathize on the beer prices… borderline criminal lol

[@JetLagWarriors]

Hey- sorry on behalf of any Leaf fans you met who may have caused a problem... sometimes beer can lead to some issues. Can I ask you a potentially dumb question: How did you get into the sport of hockey? I'm always curious about how hockey fandom in a non-traditional market would begin. A certain player, a certain playoff run... For me, I started skating when I was 5 years old, and playing hockey not long after. So, I had no choice LOL! Thanks for watching :)

[@jsumser2291]

​@JetLagWarriors can't speak for everyone but I'd imagine for most of us it was something like this: 1)For many years the team was very bad, so tickets were not SUPER expensive (obviously not cheap either but hey) and so going to those games was a fun "day out", and people got into it that way. 2) A lot of people move here to retire from the north where hockey is more relevant, so their kids and grandkids grow up with us as the local team. 3) IMO, we have one of the best regional broadcasts in the league with Goldie and Randy, so a lot of people tune in to hear them and then get attached. 4) Luongo trade made the team more diverse and helped introduce other races to the game because he's so high profile and was a huge draw. 5) Recent success has turned a lot of newbies/casuals into big fans, and personalities like Matty go along well with Florida crowds

[@yiordanni]

@@JetLagWarriors I played hockey as a kid before we moved to Florida in the early 90’s where the opportunity then was limited and I stopped playing. Admittedly I have always been a fan of the sport since childhood but didn’t follow the NHL as much until my son started playing at age 5 some years ago. We started going to more games with him and became season ticket holders. We are an entire hockey family now and as mentioned above, with all of the northerners that move here, as well as all the Europeans, and retired NHL’ers who like the lower taxes, golf and weather (and who some have kids that play with mine), hockey down here is really taking off. We have 3 new facilities built in the past couple years and another $40 million dollar facility coming with Gretzky involved in it. (Who also lives down here)

[@andrewaran8145]

@@JetLagWarriors also a season ticket holder. my dad worked for coca cola and worked closely with the people at the stadium. After that he went to the games every so often and we've been season ticket holders since 2017 after those first few games.

[@irishexplorer7862]

There are two mascots, Stanley C Panther, panther (1st) and Victor E Rat, rat (2nd). I'm a Panthers fan too and hope to get to see a game sometime.

[@skrbl174]

I hate what Draisaitl did to Barkov that was outrageous

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah, is Barkov ok? I figured if it was a cut or a tooth knocked loose, he would be back on the ice in a few minutes. I am really hoping it wasn't a concussion? Want to see him back in Game 3.

[@Jamooh]

@@JetLagWarriors No info yet, maybe concussion or HOPEFULLY "just" broken jaw.

[@pyroslavia9499]

they will do the same to mcdavid if there is no suspension

[@Creedon99]

GOOD HIT BY DRAISAITL ❤ take the day off barfkov 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@Michael-ir8zs]

@@Creedon99lol Micro D

[@themoose0221]

Lol Panthers fan here, yeah we hate the arena parking and concession pricing too, it's been a point of contention with fans for years. But that stadium was built for hockey and only hockey, there's not a bad seat in the whole place. Glad you had a great time!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks for this comment, and we definitely had a great time! The beer price is what it is, it's the NHL finals and everything will be more expensive. The other thing we didn't realize before we came: The arena is sort of in the middle of nowhere? I guess (although our team stinks) we are blessed in Toronto that our arena is right downtown. Took 1.5 hours to get to Amerant Bank arena from North Beach. Anyway- overall, no complaints. We had a great time!

[@themoose0221]

Bit of a long story, the short version is that the team originally played in Miami. The building they used to play in (the Miami Arena) was shared by them and the Miami Heat basketball team, but by the mid-90s that arena was falling apart so they needed to find a new place. There were some attempts to have the Panthers stay in Miami but they and the Heat had disagreements, so the Panthers moved to Sunrise where there was ample space for a new stadium, and the Heat built the arena in downtown Miami where they play now. Also there’s some discussion about whether Broward county (where Sunrise is) is a better hockey market than Miami-Dade county, but that’s honestly kind of irrelevant. Down here, if your team is good then people will show up. Panthers are no longer the joke of the league and get good consistent attendance. Glad you got to see it for yourself!

[@lanceludwig5349]

@@JetLagWarriors. It it’s kinda the same as the patriots aren’t in Boston they’re off in foxborough. If the panthers stayed in Miami with the best the franchise would’ve went under for sure

[@Speduiini]

Can you still park in the parking lot of the mall on the other side of the road from the arena in the playoffs? I remember that was the trick to save that like 50 bucks for parking when I was there last regular season

[@themoose0221]

@@Speduiinitechnically yes you can but they keep trying to discourage it. On the other hand they insist on charging $60-$75 for stadium parking so they’re sending a very mixed message about it.

[@Madhouz]

Alot of Fins making big waves in Panthers

[@Zhvianna]

no way you guys went to game 2!!! i wish i had bumped into yall!

[@tapio_m6861]

You should have put Tappara jersey on since that's Barkov's home team.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Darn. This is a good idea! If we go back for game 5 (if there is a game 5) maybe we will wear it. Although, most North Americans will think we are Oilers fans, because of the color!

[@SilverSisu]

Tappara is not just Barkov's home team but he is one of the team owners as well. He is the third largest owner of Tappara

[@teemup9247]

@@JetLagWarriorsYou can also wear HIFK if you want to be safe, that is the youth team of Anton Lundell.

[@dtmuffinman]

This was such an awesome video, felt like I was actually there. From now on when I hate on Leafs fans, I will make sure to mention you as an exception!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Woo! Thanks for this comment. I guess I didn't realize how obnoxious Leafs fans have been in other cities until I posted this video... lots of comments like yours. Well, I am glad to show people we are not all so bad lol

[@seanpittenger2429]

What is this, a likable leafs fan!?!? I've seen it all now. Great video sir!!

[@davideberhart9523]

From SoFL and a panther fan. Visited your city last Fall. Loved it.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks for visiting! Glad you enjoyed 😃

[@sandwithane3581]

Great video man. Loved the respect for both teams despite wishing for that oilers win

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah man! I was really there in support of hockey in general. Best case for me would've been overtime! (With a bit of extra support for Edmonton, because of the Canadian connection)

[@robdedrick2052]

I was lucky enough to see 2 Finals Games in Vancouver 82 and Watched the Cup Awarded . Then was there for 3 Finals Games in 94 . So Amazing ! Toronto and Vancouver Will Get There .

[@TimSleppy]

Great video. Love your enthusiasm for the game.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks for watching! Wasn't sure how a 'neutral fan' would come across trying to make a gameday vlog but, in the end I just cheered for both teams! And it worked out well

[@joestrunk9663]

CBJ fan. love this GO PANTHERS

[@tuckercarson3187]

A lot of people moved to South Florida from northern states and Europe who loved the game of hockey already. Original South Florida sports fans grew up watching only Miami Dolphins, but now we have all 5 major sport teams here filled with superstars, including Messi. It is a great place to live that is why beer is so expensive. You must pay to live in paradise.😃

[@JetLagWarriors]

Great comment! You must pay to love in paradise lol

[@esotericveritas]

So, i got into playing hockey because of the Panthers. My family had season tickets starting in year 2, 94-95. I was at all the games in 95-96, the year they went on that amazing run. A ton of leagues popped up all around south florida. I took weekly skating lessons and other lessons to get better. Started as a forward, became a D-man because coach realized i was bigger than all the other kids my age. I played on Florida Jr. Panthers, also in the Jr. Olympics and was scouted by the Cape Breton Eagles of the CHL. I guess because i was a right shot, a good skater, and a kind of puck moving D-man before that was really a thing, in the mid-90's. I could also play physical and had a high hockey IQ. My fave team was Panthers but they weren't always good so i started liking the Red Wings and their late 90's teams, specifically Niklas Lidstrom - he was my fave player and i tried to model my game after him a little bit. Anyways, my hockey career ended cuz my parents didnt have the $$$ to send me to Canada to play... its a shame, i think i could have made it far. I also started to referee peewee, adolescent and junior games - certified USA Hockey ref. I did it for some extra money really - but it was fun too. Fun fact - the Panthers home arena is one of the biggest in the league, so thats why it may SEEM like there are not that many fans there during season, but in actuality the number there would be a sellout at most other NHL arenas.

[@rorman13]

"Blew the whole budget on beer." That sounds like a very Bob and Doug McKenzie thing to say. My respect to you brother.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Hahha! Classic Canadian humour 😆

[@hestoncjr.3560]

"Panthers suck" Says the fans in the background of the video rooting for the team that scored 1 goal in the first 2 games of the series lmaoooo 😂

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah that was a younger guy who was pretty drunk. Actually, there was an epic moment where an older Panthers fan explained to the youngster: "Listen, we aren't chanting, 'Oilers suck', and do you know why? Because both of these teams are very good. In fact, these are the two best teams in the league this year! So, you should chant 'Let's go, Oilers', rather than 'Panthers suck', because neither of these teams suck" The young kid totally agrees, says both teams are great... And then 5 minutes later he's yelling PANTHERS SUCK again. hahahaha

[@samtheman_23]

but he's not wrong at all :D

[@hestoncjr.3560]

​@@samtheman_23 😰 The last 2 games making me real nervous

[@samtheman_23]

@@hestoncjr.3560 i understand verry well. A momentum of the series has changed and panthers has lost the odds and now it's pretty even. But i'm happy if panthers wins the series at least in the game 7 because of our finns, barkov, lundel etc.

[@safarmagzumov1611]

Спасибо тебе , давно хотел с трибун смотреть хоккей. Привет из России.

[@joeythenomad]

$20 for a beer in the finals? Gotta take out a second mortgage to afford snack time LOL

[@JetLagWarriors]

LOL! Now everyone can see why I was so happy with the beer prices at the games in Europe. 20 USD adds up quick!

[@immukohonen7871]

Play-offs hockey have send several wealthy men to poverty.

[@petrikallio2485]

I thought finnish prices are rough as they are around 10-12 dollars

[@KevinBrevin]

Regular season its still like 16-18$

[@doctorcane]

@@KevinBrevin not with a STH discount. It's around $10, maybe 8 depending on where you get it.

[@deli_kani8450]

This was amazing video. I like😇 Greetings from finland, Barkov will take that stanley cup.❤

[@arcfastr1]

Haha Leafs sweater, represent! One day they'll win but man they got that curse. Looks like Florida loves their hockey too. Have a blast and enjoy the beaches. lets go Canada!

[@hollowmade]

As a Swedish life-long Panthers fan, this video is awesome. Getting to see a little bit of the experience of the arena. But that beer price? Insane!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks for watching! And yeah, the beer price is off the charts. Must be an attempt to stop people from drinking too much

[@Edwardo485]

I guess you weren't aware their official mascots are Stanley C. Panther & Viktor E. Ratt. 🌴

[@JetLagWarriors]

Two great names for mascots! Didn't know this, thanks for sharing

[@Edwardo485]

@@JetLagWarriors 😊 👍

[@tirronen]

You should have worn your Tappara jersey! Barkov would approve!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Darn, I consider this a missed opportunity. Tappara jersey would've been a great idea!

[@sabasaba9790]

Lots of Tappara fans follow Panthers closely. You wonder why...

[@coltonbunja]

Gotta say, it's super cool to just see/hear you enjoy the game of hockey as someone with no dog in this fight (so to speak). Hope you enjoyed you and your wife enjoyed y'alls time down South.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks! It was a fun atmosphere and a great memory for us :D

[@jasonlynch2919]

Lucky you. I'm a leaf fan born in 67 and still waiting.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah, the Leafs seem to be cursed. I won't give up on them, but I wanted to see a Stanley Cup Finals match, and got tired of waiting. It was a fun experience for certain, but imagine if the Leafs ever do make a finals? That would be insane. I feel like all 7 games would be home games LOL

[@Imstarmm2]

@@JetLagWarriorsLEAFS SUCK

[@Imstarmm2]

Jk I’m from Toronto and love the oilers, but I am leaf fans it’s just that they always suck in the Stanley cup. It makes me mad so I’m more oilers rn

[@doctorcane]

@@Imstarmm2 TBH, you should have beaten Boston in Game 7. But going to OT in a G7 always ensures an awful result for one team.

[@sstarphoenix]

Thats me in the beginning walking in front of you LOL

[@Dr-DIF]

Sound of silence just like in a church. NHL good hockey but useless fans. /Stockholm Johanneshov

[@JetLagWarriors]

Ah I thought there might be some comments saying this. The atmosphere in Europe is different... we still had a great time though

[@JetLagWarriors]

Anyone curious about what Swedish hockey fans are like can click here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/anWuoICMrdRpoqM&ab_channel=JetLagWarriors

[@Dr-DIF]

@@JetLagWarriors You and your wife record incredibly nice videos from all corners of the world. Keep going //DIF

[@KK19825]

I've only been to one NHL game in my life and it was in sunrise in 2019. Have to say the prices have gone up but so has the attendance. There were quite a lot of finns in the audience then.

[@jani3253]

Barkov plays in first line so they should make some scores, but they have played also against the biggest stars of opponent via whole play offs. And now they do same to Oilers first line. So that is like double job what he do. He is the greatests center in the NHL!

[@GreySectoid]

Seeing Barkov getting elbowed, the next game is going to be intense. Should have been 2 games ban for Drai but the league didn't have the balls.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah, nothing worse than a star player being injured on a dirty play

[@kalma999]

I haven't watched hockey nhl in a long time, but this was fun to watch

[@TheMiamirep]

You put a lot of work into editing your video. Thanks for the upload! LET’S GO PANTHERS!!!!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks for watching!!

[@simonmarshall19]

You are so lucky to go to that game live . Ty . Awesome. I hope someday Florida can play in an Outdoor Game .

[@doctorcane]

Season after next it looks like. They are playing in Finland Next season. Tampere I know for certain.

[@CJ-xi5gm]

Great video. I was at the game and loved it. I’m from Toronto originally but moved to FL for work (and escaping Canada) in 2008. Love seeing a true hockey fan experience our team and the local fans. I always tell my friends that Toronto has the best fan base but puts out a terrible product. Toronto fans deserve better so I’m glad you were here. I write this from my home office staring across at my autographed / framed Sundin jersey. Go Cats !

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks for this comment, I agree 100%! I wasn't sure how this video would turn out-- being a neutral fan. In the end, I sort of cheering for both teams. Basically, cheering for the sport itself :D. It worked out. Thanks again

[@JCC51300]

Leaf fans do deserve better, but Oiler fans stand alone in their enthusiasm for their team. Why does Southern Ontario reject the Oilers, anyway?

[@immukohonen7871]

See Panthers as your Nordic-connection! Since you got that fresh Viking flavour still in you! Finns: Barkov, Lundell, Mikkola & Luostarinen. Swedes: Stenlund, Forsling, Ekman & Björnfot. (+ Canadien coach Maurice & 11 Canadien players.) Too much for the Oilers!

[@JetLagWarriors]

It's a good point! I wasn't sure how to set up this video: On one hand, I want a Canadian team to win the cup. On the other, the Panthers are led by a bunch of Finns and Swedes (especially Barkov), and I really enjoy watching Bob play in net. Ultimately, I decided to keep it mostly neutral, because really, my heart is with the Leafs. If we ever make a run, I'll go nuts, I swear.

[@МегафонМегафон-в3я]

Барков русский, как и Бобровский, Куликов, Тарасенко. И все три раза что Пантеры были в финале их туда вытягивали русские. В 90-х Буре, в прошлом году Бобровский, и в этом году Барков и Бобровский.

[@МегафонМегафон-в3я]

​@@JetLagWarriorsБарков такой же финн, как и ты русский. Если волк родится в конюшне, он не станет лошадью. Барков русский.

[@doctorcane]

@@МегафонМегафон-в3я He claims Finnish citizenship and connection. I've never heard him mention himself being russian. Ever.

[@МегафонМегафон-в3я]

@@doctorcane А причем тут гражданство и связи? Как это влияет на тот фак что он русский? Папа русский, мама русская. В каком месте он финн? Это разные вещи, хотя он был в юности заигран за Россию, и был в драфте КХЛ , он гражданин Финляндии, и игрок ее сборной, но русским он от этого быть не перестал. Есть куча интервью его на русском, и с русскими в команде он общается на русском. А так да, он финский гражданин.

[@ZackMayeux204]

we have two mascots A panther and a rat

[@pratibhaverma9176]

Hardcore broken hearted Leafs fan here. Florida is a good team

[@JetLagWarriors]

Florida is a good team. As a neutral fan, it was a fun game to watch. A comeback by the home team after an early 1 goa deficit. Just great!

[@pratibhaverma9176]

@@JetLagWarriors I am dying without the cup. I will be surprised if the Leafs make it to round 2. Berube better do this magic

[@jani3253]

It's like Finland-Canada match, because Panthers Captain is from Tappara Finland and that other team's Captain somewhere from Canada.

[@Ville-u8g]

Hate Dreiseitle for being such a bad sport, taking out the opponents captain on final sreries.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah, I didn’t see/notice how dirty the play was at the time. On replay it looked pretty bad, hope Barkov is back for the next games

[@ntnnot]

From the Lahti arena to here. A "slight" difference.😃I guess they do indeed do things big in America. Comes with a price tag! No doubt a cool experience. And Barkov and the boys got it done in the end!

[@ssr-p1n]

holy... 20 bucks for a pint of beer is crazy.. I guess they somehow gotta make the money for the crazy salaries of players

[@PB1300]

Panthers fan since 1993. I moved to South Florida in 86, when I was 8. I was an Islanders fan until the Panthers inception. The sport is just the best, period. I went to some games before their cup run in 96, and up until prior to them moving to broward country. The Miami Arena was an hour drive for us, so we didnt go often. Once they moved to Sunrise, we went to more and more games, and we eventually because season ticket holders for 10 years. My favorite player all time is Pavel Bure, which obviously was amazing when we traded for him. We moved to Greece in 2008, and have been here ever since. I now watch the games online, most of the times live, which is normally 2am here. I bleed Panthers colors, and you wont find a bigger fan than me (no disrespect to the rest of the teams 5 fans).

[@JetLagWarriors]

Awesome comment :) . It's nice to see people loving hockey. And yes, Bure was a star! Not sure if he was on the Panthers (or the Canucks, maybe?) when he did that iconic move on a breakaway, where we dropped the puck to his skates on purpose, and then kicked it back to his stick and scored... but that was a move all my friends were trying in practice for years later. Hockey really is the best :D

[@PB1300]

@@JetLagWarriors almost hit 60 twice with the Panthers. He was a star, the Panthers were just too cheap to build around him. And that little drop pass off his skate, he did that in a Panthers jersey. Any Panthers info you ever need, I’m here for you. If you’re on hfboards as well, I’m PB1300 there.

[@JetLagWarriors]

So funny you mentioned hfboards! I had never heard of this site until today. I noticed some of our traffic on this video is coming from that site. I guess someone posted it there (big thanks to them!), although when I went to check it out, I couldn’t find the post. Anyway, the timing is coincidental 😄. Thanks for watching and commenting!!

[@PB1300]

@@JetLagWarriors #1 hockey forum. Leafs fans are obnoxious on it though 😂

[@JakeStClair-nu5uj]

As a diehard panthers fan, this was a great video. I was actually at this game as well. So good. And we actually have 2 mascots, Stanley the panther and Viktor E the rat lol

[@Mexicantours]

There is a true hockey fan who just wants to have fun!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Absolutely!

[@Mexicantours]

@@JetLagWarriors Canucks fan here watching from Mexico..but I have actually partied with the cup 2wice on Vancouver island when my cousin willie Mitchell won it…lots of fun..

[@mgirsen]

Are those Tappara specs you got on?

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yes!! They match Edmonton's colors, and they give a subtle shoutout to our time in Finland :), so, I wanted to wear them. I guess I am a bit cheering for Edmonton, but really just cheering for the game of hockey. Was hoping for overtime!!, but in the end we saw an exciting game, and had a great time.

[@petrimikael]

@@JetLagWarriors Did you know that Barkov is from Tampere and Tappara? I think he nowadays even owns shares in Tappara. So, those specs kind of cheers for him also 😊

[@coloradoexplorer3940]

i missed the part where the Oilers fans to the right of you were celebrating in the 3rd period

[@TicoEnDallas]

Not sure if anyone explained the rats.. Obviously the mascot is a Panther but in the teams’ 3rd season (‘96) before the home opener, Scott Mellanby saw a rat running through the locker room (they used to play in the then dingy Miami Arena) and used his stick to slap the rat sending it flying and killing it. That night he scored 2 goals.. After media got wind of the story, fans started to throw plastic rats to the ice after every Mellanby score at first, then after every Panther score.. After the ‘96 NHL banned throwing rats after every score but it’s become tradition to do so after every win.. thus why rats rained down yesterday.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Great story. Very funny and interesting history

[@andrewchristie2970]

Still good for Florida and the leagues popularity… for a lot of those fans it’s their first hockey game. Hopefully it becomes like Tampa Bay, which is as much a hockey city as Pittsburgh any northern American city now

[@JetLagWarriors]

It’s good to see our Canadian game growing south of the border. Next, what we need, is some NFL teams up north!! Let’s goo

[@Rotiel]

@@JetLagWarriors Yes true. Interestingly the games's origin is Canadian although 4 of the 6 original 1942 NHL teams were south of the border teams.

[@kaljaukko5439]

Florida Will Win!!! I hope Barkov is not out of rest of the games. Edmonton sucks. 💩

[@JetLagWarriors]

I guess Florida has the support of almost all of Finland. It makes sense, Barkov is such a star! Really hoping he won't miss more games also.

[@pexrinne5144]

@@JetLagWarriors Don´t forget Mikkola, Lundell and Luostarinen ;)

[@carlhenry3201]

The mascot is not a rat 🤦🏿‍♂️. We throw the rat because back in ‘95, then captain Mellanby, scored 2 goals in a game with same stick he killed a rat with in the locker room earlier. They said he got a “rat trick” and lore was born

[@Braves246x]

Awesome seeing this game from a neutral perspective, I was there this game and it was my first Playoff/final game ever. Amazing energy in the arena. Great vid!!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Awesome! Thanks for watching

[@same383]

You should have Barkov's Tappara jersey there! 😎

[@jjhenstic2394]

Just subscribe ur channel bro,I’m a panthers fan,go cats!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks for subscribing!!

[@marumi808]

Thanks for the video. This is exactly what I was looking for. Arena footage and just get the sense of being in there myself. Not highlights all the time, but just seeing the normal stuff and atmosphere

[@JetLagWarriors]

Awesome! Glad you enjoyed our video. The atmosphere was pretty good… definitey felt the intensity picking up as the game went on.

[@manugabbleRE]

Very fun seeing the playoff finals environment from within the stadium... god knows the leafs won't bring that experience to Toronto anytime soon! :( Great commentary as well! You were always a huge hockey fan and it shows.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yo, Manu!! Wassup dude!!! Long time no see. I’m back in Mississauga for the next months. Let’s meetup

[@manugabbleRE]

@@JetLagWarriors that would be awesome!

[@zoysiaguy3757]

More subdued crowed due to beers being 20 bucks sheesh

[@kingkijij]

terrible game for Oilers. Leafs jersey at the finals ?

[@JetLagWarriors]

Wanted to wear something more than a t-shirt! So, I went with the only jersey I had. Maybe should’ve worn Tappara!

[@anttipaloniemi4451]

Greetings from sunny Tampere. Even if u miss ur change to wear Tappara jersey u got those cool Tappara sunglasses on u that I gave u!! Respect that my sunglasses got to see Stanley Cup finals!!!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks again for the glasses buddy! I figured they sort of match Oilers orange, and it was a subtle way for me to shoutout our trip to Finland! Thanks again

[@grassinen]

Florida Panthers becouse "Sasha" Barkov, the best center for both sides! :) And you know that he's from Tampereen Tappara! WOW :) nice to see ya guys :)

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah! We could’ve wore our Tappara jerseys! Opportunity missed

[@GMMXX80]

You need to go to a Red Wings game. They don't call Detroit Hockey Town for no reason. Wings fans are CRAZY!!! Florida is like this because it's Stanley Cup. I didn't want Florida or Edmonton, I don't like either so I hear ya on supporting the sport. I wanted Dallas and New York but, is what it is. Yup, goalie too. When I started playing hockey, I grew up lower middle class. Baseball was cheap, hockey was really expensive and I didn't get to see my first hockey game, in person, until I was thirteen or fourteen. So, I played as much Street Hockey as I could. Once I was older and could pay for my own equipment though, I tried out for hockey and thought they'd never let me play forward and I wanted to play so I figured if I tried out for defense they couldn't tell me "NO", and they did. Lo and behold, I got a call back and they said they were putting me between the posts. I'm not a big guy, I'm tall and scrawny but with all my equipment, I crowd the net so, I ended up a goalie as well. My first game ever we lost horribly 7-1 but my second game I got popped in the head and taken off my feet to my back and laid there freezing the puck. The ref came over asking me if I was okay. I said "I don't know, did the puck go in?" He said he didn't know and asked me to roll over asking if I was okay. I just asked if it went in. I scrambled like a turtle on my back to roll on my side and heard the goalie call no goal as the other refs skated up asking if I was good. "YUP" I responded, got back up and got back in the game. Only puck I ever took to the head and that game I cut on half so I was rapidly getting better. Always kept my glove up, crowded and tightened up the net eliminating space, and played hybrid. All that weight on my legs took me time learning to drop and slide from bar to bar but I got it in time. Wanted to play forward. Tried out for defense. Became a goalie and I LOVED IT! It's my position of choice so I hear ya on seeing things from the goalie perspective and I don't like Skinner, I think he's lucky. Not as good as everyone says. Hasek, Osgood, and while he wasn't there long Howard

[@amsf1]

Congrats Panthers. Yall stayed disciplined and composed even with the Oilers playing dirty. 2 knee to knee hits and and that elbow. I'm so glad we broke the Oilers hearts. The look on Mcdavids face was priceless. I'll remember it forever.

[@larsjson1476]

Where are the ultras? Where are the unity? Sounds like a Div 1 game here in Sweden 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@JetLagWarriors]

I though there might be some comments from this coming from Europeans (especially Swedes!) I've included a link to our experience in the Swedish Elite League crowd on the pinned comment, hoping more North Americans will see it!

[@Kane-Viktorovich]

when I say F leafs fans, i dont mean this guy

[@GMMXX80]

I'd also say Game 3 is gonna be a bit of a trip for Florida though they'll likely lose but that's because they have to beat the Oilers fans, that's the challenge. You learn how to get them out of your head and then your good so I think Edmonton will get their one game at Game 3 but then Florida will win Game 4 and then Game 5. Pretty anti-climatic

[@novittucrafty]

20$ aint much when you think that the best earning hockey players make 0,5$ every seconds. So they'd make enough money for that pint in 40seconds

[@immukohonen7871]

I admit I was wrong. Last two games that Oilers have won have been the best playoff hockey I remember ever seen or at least for a long time. Oilers found the way play jazz against Panthers.

[@darrenhendry2704]

Great video bud. It felt like I was at the game with you guys. Incredible footage. As a Jets fan I’m in the same boat as you and your Leafs. It’s Floridas turn to hoist the cup. 🤠👍

[@JetLagWarriors]

Glad you enjoyed! We always have a blast making these gameday vlogs, and we are happy to read your comment because our goal is to make it feel like the viewer is right there with us! Thanks for watching!

[@pexrinne5144]

Nhl chants are so simplistic and boring, they make me wanna sleep. Ps : According to every rule in the NHL books Drasaitl Should´ve received a game misconduct for the elbow to the face hit on Barkov.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah, I mentioned how European hockey fans are chanting a lot more frequently, and have a variety of chants around 12:52 . I didn't want to talk too long about it, because I figure most people watching this video might not have seen our Finnish hockey series, but, it's really noticeable for us, having seen both Finnish Liiga finals and now NHL finals in the past month or so. The crowd in North America is quite different... still exciting for me, but it's more subdued. Yeah, let's see what happens with Draisatl and Barkov. Really hope Barkov doesn't miss any games. and Ps - Who was it with the knee on knee in the first? That was incredibly dirty and lucky to not have caused a serious injury. That Oilers player might be getting suspended? Dunno

[@suppo6092]

@@JetLagWarriors Draisaitl's flying elbow to Barkov's head was honestly even more dirty than the kneeing. He literally jumped and both skates left the ice before the impact. It really blows my mind how that was only a a minor. He won't get suspended though because oilers get preferential treatment from the league. Can't touch McDavid without getting a penalty even if he skates into you and trips. Other than that you were more neutral than even the ESPN casters. They really want their miracle boy to win it.

[@jm-pc9bj]

​@@JetLagWarriorsDidn't see the game but read that it was Foegele's dirty knee on knee hit on finnish Luostarinen.

[@pexrinne5144]

@@JetLagWarriors It was Warren Foegele hitting Luostarinen. As Foegele is not a superstar such as Drasaitl, he might even get disciplinary action for that one heheh. It seems the Europeans know more about the teams and players, especially the ultras, I hope Nhl fans also start to chant or something.

[@sorin192000]

A little bit different than Rapid

[@ra81du]

Sorry for you that you a leafs fan! ... unfortunately u will never know the feeling of having your team in the finals! (romanian Stars fan)

[@JetLagWarriors]

LOL Maybe once, if I live to be 100 or something lol

[@ra81du]

@JetLagWarriors just joking! I am pretty sure someday soon the "ice will break for you"! Just a few trades, money spent more wise on defenders and a good goalie and that's it! ..ps. if a beer was 20 on a final in Florida , I don't want to know how much it will cost on a final in Toronto:))

[@JetLagWarriors]

Wow, good point. I can't even imagine what a beer would cost in Toronto, if they made the finals.

[@uttermanbo]

Getting a drink or food at a game is gonna hit your pocketbook harder than Wayne Gretzky ever got hit in his career. You need a couple bruisers to rough up those vendors for you.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Lol good comment 😆

[@jani3253]

Oilers don't have any chances, because Mr Tappara knows how to wins.👍👍👍

[@jani3253]

Barkov's dad was the best player in Tappara. Later this junior was the Best.

[@hannuloijas1249]

Nice to see you in finals🇫🇮🇫🇮🇫🇮

[@user-he8nu2ic1h]

Was it easy to get finals’ tickets? How much were them?

[@JetLagWarriors]

We paid 500 USD for each ticket. Although, we bought it last minute from seatgeek. It probably could be cheaper if we bought earlier

[@user-he8nu2ic1h]

@@JetLagWarriors OK. Interesting that last minute tickets were available for a final game. I visited the place in regular season years ago. Back then the hockey culture was in its infancy and the arena was only half full against the Fl rivals TBL. People mainly wanted to see big hits and fights, blood and loose teeth :D.

[@user-he8nu2ic1h]

This spring I was in Tampere for game 3 as were you guys to see our Pelicans win :). Still waiting for the championship though...

[@realismatitsfinest5745]

In any typical Canadian-based arena for any team you'd find that the majority of fans (if not all of them) played hockey as kids and a large chunk of them still play hockey. My question: how many of these fans play hockey or even played as kids? Until that happens, hockey will firmly remain a Canadian sport. And if nothing else illustrates this fact, the following will: the majority of the players on both teams are Canadian: 12 on the Panthers and 20 on the Oilers. Back when the Blue Jays won the World Series (twice in a row) all the Yanks were defending that saying, "well, the majority of players are Americans so it's really an American win." Are they saying that now when the Panthers win? I think not. Yet, it is true that whoever wins, will be a Canadian win!

[@JohnVelcofsky]

You've got to do draft beer next time, it's cheaper.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Wish I knew this! I actually grabbed the Molson’s because I wanted to mention that it said ‘made in Canada’ in huge letters on it. Was gonna make some bad joke about how the sport was ‘made in Canada’ too… but then I got so distracted by the price I forgot to say it lol

[@andrewbruce949]

You guys got the seats my wife and I normally get for the regular season. Still a great view!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah, great seats, even if they are at the back row. For us, more important is to be near center ice. Thanks for watching!

[@Drew-C-]

19:48 - bathroom-line Panthers fans called it correctly so far.

[@G1100L]

Great video!!! Go Leafs Go!!❤

[@BrettMichaelRocker]

Someone needs to show this video to all those Edmonton whiners saying the stadium was empty and the refs favored the Panthers. This video is literal proof of both those not being true. A Leafs fan who says he slightly favors Edmonton said Edmonton was favored in the game here.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Overall, the refs weren't too bad. One penalty against the Panthers was a total phantom though.

[@tommyers5665]

There's 4 bathrooms on the top level. you happened to be at the smallest one lol

[@Juju12_18]

Great video of my favorite arena Quick note on the comment about the panthers mascot at around the 31:57ish mark, we actually have two mascots who are Stanley C Panther who is of course a panther and the rat is Viktor E. Ratt the rat tradition goes back to 1995 when Scott Mellanby killed a rat in the locker room with his stick and scored 2 goals that night winning the panthers the game. John Vanbiesbrouck called it a “rat trick” so fans throw rats when the panthers win home games.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Great info, thanks for this comment. This will help a lot of non-local fans who watch this video. Every seat actually had a towel on it (to wave above your head) that said something like 'rat-pack' which started my confusion lol. Thanks again

[@frankpropri540]

Love the video man.Great job, let's go panthers.The oiler fan's eyes are leaking oil

[@JetLagWarriors]

Hey, thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed. Florida is in good place in the series... can't wait for game 3

[@jcg9998]

An interesting video... it's always interesting to see video from a different angle from someone at the game. Congrats on your first Stanley Cup game. Even though you were far up, at least you were in the building and at center ice at that... Where was the camera when the second and third goals for Florida were scored? You barely caught the second one and basically missed the third.

[@JetLagWarriors]

Yeah we made sure to be near center ice, so we could capture footage of both ends without having to look through the net. Unfortunately, it's tough to capture every goal. I did my best but, sometimes the scoring chances happen quick and I don't have time to press record. I guess the alternative would just be to film everything but, that seems like a lot of work, lol. Anyway, thanks for watching!

[@porcomalo]

so... did you get tickets already for panthers vs stars global series games in tampere 1.-2. of november?

[@JetLagWarriors]

No, but I really should look into this. The timing is not great for us, but I’d love to go

[@porcomalo]

@@JetLagWarriors and november might be even worse than march/april in finland. 😛

[@porcomalo]

might need to correct that.. not might, it IS worse!

[@michaelmohrle1773]

Nice arena, the $20 beer is ridiculous but they probably do that so people don't get too bombed during the game.

[@KAST403]

Those are 2 tall cans so that'd basically 2 beers for $20 I would be 2 a period 4sure

[@michaelmohrle1773]

@@KAST403 Not quite 2 because a pint is 4 ounces more than a 12 ounce beer. For $20 they should be the 24 ounce cans. Pretty sure it's so most people will only drink 2 max at that price.

[@sergromanenkov]

Чем интересна эта запись тем , что видна оригинальная площадка. На всех спортивных каналах её раскрашивают с помощью компьютера.

[@jcg9998]

Uhmm... what's with the thumb's up 7:22 to the Edmonton fans?... I thought you were neutral?

[@JetLagWarriors]

I'm more or less neutral. I was cheering when the Panthers scored too. I think it was at the end of the game, you'll see me fist bump a Panther fan. I think the best way to be neutral is to cheer for both sides, rather than cheer for neither. Add more noise/energy to the arena that way

[@jcg9998]

@@JetLagWarriors No worries... I was just messin' with ya'.

[@jani3253]

Some says that Barkov was born in Tappara.

[@0neChecker]

The Cats and the rats!

[@Kane-Viktorovich]

unrelated to the hockey content, love how u edit your videos, flows really nicely!

[@JetLagWarriors]

Thanks! We've been at this for some years now... so we've been trying to slowly improve. Slow and steady I guess 😆

[@sir_niksu]

Ex Tappara Alexander Barkov 💙🧡

[@murmeli6827]

Do you think that swedish and finnish fans are better than the north american ones?

[@JetLagWarriors]

Well, it's something totally different. The chants are non-stop in Europe, and there are many different versions of the chants. Not to mention the pre-game choreography. And the drum that goes along with the chants. North American fans are much quieter. (this is a long, convoluted way of saying European fans are much better... as much as it shames me to admit it) For anyone curious: Here's a video of Swedish fans: kzbin.info/www/bejne/anWuoICMrdRpoqM&ab_channel=JetLagWarriors