21 NHL teams have jointly filed a formal petition to the league office, demanding a full-scale investigation into all games played by the Florida Panthers during the 2024–2025 season — including the playoffs.
The petition, which was submitted late Monday night, calls into question what several franchises describe as “unusual officiating patterns,” “irregularities in gameplay outcomes,” and “a possible breach of competitive integrity.” According to league insiders, the request marks one of the largest collective actions ever taken by NHL teams against a single franchise.
Concerns Raised Over Officiating and Integrity
Multiple team executives cited questionable penalty calls, controversial non-calls, and what one unnamed general manager described as “consistently favorable circumstances” surrounding the Panthers throughout the season.
“It’s not just sour grapes,” said one Eastern Conference official. “The data across multiple games and series shows an imbalance that needs serious scrutiny. The integrity of the game is at stake.”
Sources also indicate that teams included video compilations and statistical breakdowns of Panthers games, suggesting patterns that warranted third-party review. There has been no indication of player misconduct, but rather a growing concern about officiating bias, potentially inconsistent replay review standards, and whether outside influence may have affected game outcomes.
Panthers Organization Responds
In response to the petition, the Florida Panthers issued a brief but firm statement Tuesday morning:
“The Florida Panthers organization categorically denies any wrongdoing. We have complete faith in the integrity of our players, coaches, and staff. We welcome any review that helps reinforce the transparency and fairness of our sport.”
The Panthers, who made a deep playoff run again this season after last year’s Stanley Cup Final appearance, have faced criticism from rival fanbases and some analysts, who questioned certain officiating decisions during critical moments.
League Expected to Launch Independent Review
While the NHL has not yet officially commented on the petition, insiders say Commissioner Gary Bettman and Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly have convened legal and compliance teams to evaluate the claims. An independent third-party review is expected to be considered — potentially led by a neutral panel of former referees, league officials, and sports integrity experts.
“The league takes such matters seriously,” one source close to the situation said. “Whether there’s substance to the claims or not, 21 teams calling for a review is unprecedented and cannot be ignored.”
What Comes Next
If the league greenlights a formal investigation, it could involve interviews with officials, review of game footage, communications audits, and betting analysis to rule out any external interference.
Fans, meanwhile, are divided. While some support the call for transparency, others argue it undermines the credibility of a successful team.
For now, the hockey world watches — waiting to see how the league will respond to a challenge that goes beyond rivalry and cuts to the heart of sportsmanship and fairness.
