The Florida Panthers’ journey to Edmonton for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals was anything but smooth. After deciding to delay their trip an extra day following a 2-0 series lead over the Oilers, they encountered heavy weather that caused a significant delay. Their flight, originally set to take off at 1 P.M., was held up by nearly three hours, finally touching down in Edmonton at 8 P.M. local time.
But that wasn’t the end of the Panthers’ travel woes. Upon approaching Edmonton International Airport, a playful Canadian air traffic controller couldn’t resist trolling the team, joking that the plane would have to “hold for two hours or until they’re low enough on fuel to divert.” In the audio recording, the pilot’s response suggested he missed the joke, especially when told to “consult with passengers” before receiving clearance to land. The controller ultimately allowed the Panthers to land, adding, “against my better judgment.”
The Panthers, who hold a commanding 2-0 lead in the series, will aim to bring themselves within one win of the Stanley Cup when they face the Oilers on Thursday night. A win would give them a near-insurmountable 3-0 lead, despite their turbulent journey north.
