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Panthers' arrival in Edmonton delayed due to weather for Game 3
  • 2024 Stanley Cup Final - Oilers vs. Panthers, news
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    Panthers’ arrival in Edmonton delayed due to weather for Game 3

    The Florida Panthers arrived in Edmonton just 22 hours before the puck drop for Game 3.

    The charter flight was delayed over three hours by monsoon-type weather in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area Wednesday. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports the plane landed just after 8 p.m. MT.

    “I rarely comment on a team’s travel plans but this is odd to me. I think they should have gone out on Tuesday,” Sportsnet’s Kelly Hrudey said. “I think this is a slight opportunity for the Oilers to get a great start in Game 3, maybe get all over them early.”

    The Oilers and most media covering the series travelled on Tuesday. However, the Panthers opted to remain home an extra day to rest.

    “We didn’t like the idea of getting them up (Tuesday) early enough to get in at a reasonable time in Edmonton. We did not see a value in it,” head coach Paul Maurice said, per Florida Hockey Now, following Wednesday’s practice. The bench boss added that he did not get home himself until after 1 a.m. local time following the Game 2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers.

    The series between the Panthers and Oilers features the largest distance between two cities in Stanley Cup Final history, at 4,089 km.

    The Panthers lead the series 2-0 as they look to win their first Stanley Cup. Game 3 from Rogers Arena takes place Thursday at 8 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. MT on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.

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    The Edmonton Panthers’ arrival for Game 3 has been delayed due to inclement weather conditions in the area. The team was scheduled to arrive in Edmonton yesterday evening, but their flight was unable to take off due to heavy snowfall and low visibility.

    As a result, the Panthers have been forced to reschedule their travel plans and are now expected to arrive in Edmonton later today. This delay could potentially impact the team’s preparation for the game, as they will have less time to acclimate to the new environment and get in some last-minute practice before hitting the ice.

    While delays like this are not uncommon in professional sports, they can still be frustrating for both players and fans alike. The Panthers will need to quickly adjust to the change in schedule and focus on getting ready for what is sure to be a crucial Game 3 against the Edmonton Oilers.

    Despite the setback, the Panthers are determined to put on a strong performance and come out on top in this important matchup. Fans can expect an intense and competitive game as both teams battle it out for a crucial win in the series.

    As the Panthers finally make their way to Edmonton, all eyes will be on them as they look to overcome the challenges of the weather delay and emerge victorious in Game 3. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.