But while the fervor often leads to exhilarating games and memorable moments, there is a line that should never be crossed. It seems that line was obliterated when a Carolina Hurricanes fan unleashed a chilling threat that compelled the authorities to extend a protective hand to the Florida Panthers, ushering them into police-guarded security as they got off their flight.
The fan, hiding behind the anonymity of the digital world, had tweeted a deeply unsettling image; a pipe bomb juxtaposed against a screenshot revealing Gudas' residential address, indicating a frightening intention to attack the player's home.
As soon as this chilling post came to light, the authorities were alerted. In an act of unwavering vigilance, they assembled at the airport, ready to secure the Panthers as they returned home from their bout in Carolina.