Photo credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Brad Marchand turned a routine Florida Panthers practice day into something unforgettable by surprising Utah Outliers forward Erick Bachtle.
Before the team hit the ice, Marchand stopped by the junior club to personally deliver the news that Bachtle had been named an assistant captain. The moment, caught on video and shared by the Panthers, showed Marchand stepping into the locker room, shaking Bachtle's hand, and offering a heartfelt congratulations.
It was a simple gesture, but one that lit up every face in the room. Florida has leaned heavily on identity and connection this season, and Marchand has become one of the strongest culture carriers on the roster.
His ability to shift seamlessly from chaos agent on the ice to supportive mentor off it has defined his presence in Sunrise. Moments like this underline the broader impact he has had since joining the organization.
Brad Marchand strengthens Florida Panthers community ties
I loved how natural the exchange felt because it spoke to the way veterans can shape the next generation with a few honest words. You could tell the Outliers players were stunned, and Bachtle looked equal parts proud and overwhelmed.
The Panthers have emphasized community engagement throughout their rise, sending players into youth programs, hospitals, and local rinks to strengthen their footprint beyond game nights.
Marchand embracing that initiative adds another layer to a season where leadership has mattered as much as execution. With Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk out, Florida has leaned on voices like his to steady the room.
Moments like this also mirror how the Panthers view development. They support their own prospects with the same intentionality, building a foundation that carries through AHL call-ups and into NHL roles. Seeing Marchand celebrate a young player's leadership appointment shows how much he respects the path every skater takes to get here.
For Bachtle, the memory will last far longer than the season. For the Panthers, it was another reminder that team culture is built in everyday interactions, not just inside NHL buildings. And for Marchand, it was one more example of his knack for creating connection wherever he goes.
Previously on Sunrise Hockey Insider