Brad Marchand Scores First Goal with Florida Panthers, Teammates Celebrate with Classic Chirps

Brad Marchand is not just a professional hockey player; he’s also a master of chirping. While his skills on the ice are undeniable, his ability to deliver a well-timed jab might just be even better.

In hockey lingo, a "chirp" refers to a playful insult or a witty remark. When it comes to chirping opponents, the intent is often serious, but when it’s directed at teammates, it’s all in good fun.

This brings us to the Florida Panthers' locker room on Thursday night, where Marchand celebrated a significant milestone: scoring his first goal for his new team. This goal marked a special moment, as it was the first time he found the net in the NHL for anyone other than the Boston Bruins.

Teammate Evan Rodrigues was asked for his thoughts on Marchand's goal.

"He's a rat," Rodrigues quipped. "Yeah, I wasn't too happy."

Marchand, who was within earshot, couldn’t help but grin at the comment. Naturally, he wasn’t going to let Rodrigues' chirp slide without a response.

"He's not wrong," Marchand replied with a chuckle. "I've hated him. We skated together in the summer, and I've hated him for a long time, so that's not going to change now."

It’s important to note that neither Rodrigues nor Marchand was being serious—at least, we hope not! The fact that Rodrigues attempted a chirp while surrounded by reporters highlights the lighthearted atmosphere Marchand brings to the Stanley Cup champions.

Marchand exudes confidence; if the Panthers had any doubts, he made his entrance into the team group chat with a chirp as his introduction. His cocky demeanor and knack for conversation are invaluable assets as the Panthers gear up to defend their title in the upcoming playoffs.

"That's a part of the package and an important part of it," said Panthers coach Paul Maurice. "Everybody's going to be wired here in 10 days, whatever it is, two weeks. Especially right now, grinding through some of these, he brings lots of energy, right? He's got lots to say, and it makes it fun."

Marchand's goal capped off a three-goal second period for Florida, helping the Panthers secure a 4-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. This was Marchand's eighth game with the Panthers after the team made a surprising move at the trade deadline to acquire him from the Bruins, a team that has been a postseason rival for Florida in recent years. The crowd erupted in applause when Marchand's goal was announced as his "22nd of the season and first as a Florida Panther."

In his first seven games with Florida, Marchand had already racked up two assists, including one in his debut on March 28 that set up an overtime winner by Sam Bennett. His first goal came on his 15th shot with the Panthers.

"I'm just enjoying this whole journey," Marchand expressed. "It's such a unique experience for myself, and I've been part of really good teams that have accomplished big things and some that haven't. Regardless, what you realize is that these opportunities are very few and far between, and you've got to enjoy every day in this league. And I'm having a lot of fun right now."