Paul Bissonnette criticized the Florida Panthers after Game 1 (Getty Images) Former NHL bruiser and current analyst Paul Bissonnette didn’t hold back in his explosive reaction to the Florida Panthers’ Game 1 antics against the Toronto Maple Leafs, which included a hit that left goalie Anthony Stolarz injured and out of the game. As the Leafs opened their second-round Stanley Cup playoff series with a tight 5-4 win last month, tensions immediately boiled over — both on the ice and in the commentary.
Paul Bissonnette explodes on ‘scumbag’ Panthers
Paul Bissonnette, known for his unfiltered style on the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast, went off on Florida’s Sam Bennett for his controversial hit that forced Stolarz out with a head injury.“We knew they were going to be f**king scumbags the entire time,” Bissonnette said. “You try to take out our starting goalie? And then go after (Joseph) Woll? He didn’t have his best night, but, in relief after that nonsense from Sam Bennett. You guys are f**king scumbags.”The incident left the Leafs scrambling, with backup Dennis Hildeby called into action. Stolarz had been a key part of Toronto’s success in the opening round, and losing him so early in the series added major stress to an already intense matchup.
Paul Bissonnette calls out Brad Marchand’s disappearing act in playoff opener
Bissonnette also took the opportunity to take a dig at Panthers forward Brad Marchand, whose Game 1 presence was barely felt according to the former enforcer, “Marchand — were you even playing tonight? Didn’t really notice you.”Marchand, known for being a pest on the ice, was largely invisible on the scoresheet and in terms of impact — a fact Bissonnette didn’t let slide.
Maple Leafs Media Availability | RD2 GM1 Post Game vs Florida Panthers | May 5, 2025
Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube also didn’t mince words postgame. Reacting to the play that took Stolarz out, Berube said, “Elbow to the head, that was clear as day.”Berube expressed frustration that no penalty was called and added, “I mean… I don’t know… I think we handled it the way we should’ve. I am not sure why there is not a call on it.”As Game 2 loomed, Bissonnette had one final rallying cry for Toronto, “So get angry. Take Game 2. Then go into that building in Sunrise — and bend them over, … just finish the job.”Also Read: “HORRIBLE”: Furious NHL fans accuse ESPN of sabotaging Avalanche vs. Stars Game 7 with baffling announcer choicePaul Bissonnette’s fiery remarks have reignited the rivalry, putting added pressure on both teams. With tensions high, all eyes now turn to Game 2 for answers, retaliation, and redemption.