Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind`Amour stated on Tuesday his intention to participate in the customary post-series handshake line again in the future. This follows his decision to step aside last week after the Eastern Conference Final Game 5 loss, a choice made at the request of Florida Panthers coach Paul Maurice. Brind`Amour admitted the request was unexpected but indicated he understood Maurice`s rationale, despite not entirely agreeing with it.
“It`s about the players, naturally,” Brind`Amour commented. “They are the ones competing on the ice; we`re just behind them. It`s not like we`re merely observers; we`re deeply invested. So I comprehend his perspective that the focus should be on the players. Reflecting on it now, however, especially when considering gracious defeat, I`ve personally experienced quite significant memories and interactions within that handshake line as a coach.”
Brind`Amour emphasized the continued personal significance of the handshake tradition for him, citing Carolina`s first-round victory against New Jersey, a team that included several former Hurricanes players.
“Looking ahead, I will likely resume participating because, to me, it represents respect,” Brind`Amour stated. “That`s how I see it. While we aren`t on the ice battling directly, we are deeply involved alongside the players. That`s my view. I believe everyone is entitled to their own approach. Since he won, I deferred and thought, `Okay, I`ll follow your lead.` Nonetheless, I personally feel it`s crucial to demonstrate respect towards the players.”
Maurice elaborated on his viewpoint after the victory that secured the series and sent the defending Stanley Cup champion Panthers back to the Final, explaining his desire for the moment to be exclusively for the players. A short, noticeable interaction occurred between the coaches near the benches on the ice, appearing to be a lively yet respectful discussion about his decision.
“To me, there`s a visual element, with cameras focused on the players who competed, blocked shots, and supported one another,” Maurice remarked. “It`s the conclusion of one team`s season and elation for the other. The last thing a Carolina Hurricanes player needs is another 50 individuals in suits they don`t recognize – and that`s not intended negatively. There`s a certain beauty in the cameras capturing just those players shaking hands. We ought to honor that.”
The Florida Panthers are scheduled to meet the Edmonton Oilers in a rematch for the Stanley Cup Final, with the first game set for Wednesday.
Elton Marrow