Shortly after completing their series comeback and Game 7 OT win against the powerhouse Boston Bruins, the Florida Panthers announced some unique conditions for ticket sales for their Round 2 series against the Leafs. Their hope is to prevent Leaf fans from taking over the arena like they do during the regular season.
My first thought here is that this takes away from the inclusivity that the NHL is going for. Excluding an entire group of people based on their geographical location is also basically synonymous with discrimination. Who cares where fans are from? You're filling your building either way. Having fans from both fanbases present is a part of what makes a sporting event special.
We already know that Leaf fans will find a way to be present when the series shifts back to Sunrise for Games 3 and 4 anyway, but it's a matter of principle here, really. Shameful behaviour by the Panthers.
