Panthers let Brad Marchand's kids steal the show before milestone night

Just before the Florida Panthers took the ice, the team handed the mic to Marchand's kids, who proudly announced the starting lineup before their dad's 1,000-point ceremony. It was pure joy in a rink full of noise.

The Panthers' social media clip went viral almost instantly, not for flash but for feeling. The little voices called out names like veterans, pausing perfectly before «number 63, Brad Marchand.» The whole bench cracked smiles.

It hit different because it came before a game that already meant so much. Marchand, 37, was honored for reaching 1,000 career NHL points earlier this season, a milestone he hit back on November 13 against Washington.

It's the kind of moment that shows how well the Panthers have embraced him since he arrived this summer on a six-year, $31.5 million deal. He's still producing like a top-liner too, sitting at 22 goals and 22 assists in 38 games.

Fans love seeing the human side, and this one hit right in the heart. For a guy who spent 15 seasons being the villain in Boston, it's something to see him be the family man in Florida's colors.

Before puck drop, Marchand's kids waved to the crowd, he smiled, and it felt like a full-circle night. The ceremony before the Montreal game wrapped up with applause that lingered, louder than most goals.

Moments like that explain why he says the Panthers room keeps him feeling 20. The family vibe, the teammates, and nights like these keep that passion alive.