Christine Bumstead, an assistant coach, had a unique journey that led her to be behind the bench for a preseason game with the Florida Panthers, the reigning Stanley Cup champions. Her path began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she connected with Paul Maurice, the former coach of the Winnipeg Jets, during a hunting trip. Maurice was impressed by Bumstead's hockey knowledge and coaching potential.
Bumstead was later invited to participate in a development camp with the Panthers and eventually found herself coaching in a preseason game against Nashville. She expressed her gratitude for the experience and described it as special.
