Tensions are running high in Florida as the hockey world witnesses a truly rare and controversial moment just hours before one of the most critical games of the season. With everything on the line for the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers just a win away from hoisting the Stanley Cup, every detail of preparation matters.

Yet, in a move that has stunned fans and insiders alike, a Panthers forward has taken gamesmanship to a new level, disrupting the Oilers’ usual pre-game routine and sending shockwaves through both locker rooms. This bold act has not only broken a long-standing NHL tradition but also set the stage for a psychological battle before the puck even drops. As tonight’s do-or-die matchup approaches, all eyes are on how this unexpected twist will impact the players and potentially alter the momentum of the series. The intensity, rivalry, and drama have reached a fever pitch, promising that what happens next could be remembered for years to come.

Photo credit: Screenshot

We just witnessed a pretty incredible scene live from Florida, just hours before the matchup between the Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers.

Let’s just say, you don’t see this every day.

There’s a major unwritten rule across the NHL stating that the ice must be made available on game mornings at least one hour before the visiting team’s practice begins.

This morning, the Panthers were supposed to clear the ice at least one hour before the Oilers’ practice.

The reason is simple.

Most players-especially guys like Connor McDavid and company-want to get on the ice 30, 40, even 50 minutes before official practice starts.

It’s part of their gameday routine, and it’s really important to them.

And this is something that’s respected 99.9% of the time by the home team.. but not this morning!

Carter Verhaeghe Prevents Oilers from Practicing as They Normally Would, Disrupts Their Gameday Routine

Keep in mind, tonight’s game is a do-or-die situation for the Edmonton Oilers, and the Florida Panthers could win the Stanley Cup this evening.

On this occasion, Verhaeghe clearly started the mind games early.

The Panthers forward stayed on the ice for a long time “practicing his shots,” and was still out there less than 8 minutes before the Oilers’ scheduled practice.

Wow.

He effectively prevented all Oilers players from jumping on the ice 30-40-50 minutes early, as they normally do-definitely breaking up their usual routine.

He made the Oilers wait quite a while.

The Oilers even asked Panthers staff to skip the Zamboni so they could get on the ice right away.

“The Panthers player didn’t need to take more shots.

He stayed out there alone just to mess with the Edmonton guys.”

– DLC

This sets the stage for tonight.. and possibly for the next game in Edmonton (if necessary).

Something tells me that if there is a Game 7, the Oilers might suddenly feel the need to spend a long time practicing their shots just before the Panthers’ morning skate.

What’s your prediction for tonight?