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Paul Bissonnette Sends Stern Warning to Panthers Before Maple Leafs Series

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated May 3, 2025 6:13 AM ET

The Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers are set to meet in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the second time in three years, and Paul Bissonnette lost no time stirring the pot.

On Friday's episode of the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, Bissonnette took direct aim at the Panthers, sending a direct warning their way.

“Now it's on to Goliath, the Florida Panthers, and we have unfinished business with you,” Bissonnette said.

Bissonnette went on to mention a few Panthers players, including forwards Matthew Tkachuk and Sam Bennett.

“You hear that, 'Bennett the Menace'?” Bissonnette said. ”Hi, Matthew! We just took down your brother Brady, and now we're coming for you.”

See you in round 2 Rats. It’s going to be biblical. Your ass is grass, Brad. #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/7s7x5BKnDZ
— Paul Bissonnette (@BizNasty2point0) May 2, 2025

Bissonnette also reserved a special moment for new Panthers forward Brad Marchand.

“My arch (expletive) nemesis,” Bissonnette said. “I'm going to take you down, once and for all. You hear me, Brad!? You’re going down, buddy. Put the war paint on because it’s our time. It’s our year.

”Go, Leafs, Go! Go, Leafs, Go! Yes!”

Florida reached the second round by defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in five games, winning all three on the road. Toronto eliminated the Ottawa Senators in six games, with the final game played in Toronto.

Toronto won the Atlantic Division over the Panthers and enters the second round holding home-ice advantage. Florida, however, dominated the Leafs in the regular season, taking three of four games between both franchises.

Game 1 between the Leafs and the Panthers is scheduled for Monday, May 5 at 8 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena, with the last postseason meeting between both teams ending with Florida beating the Leafs in five games back in 2023.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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