Creepy billboard of Flyers’ mascot Gritty descends on NHL hub city of Toronto

Would the NHL really be back if there wasn't some Gritty content involved?

The Philadelphia Flyers mascot and internet sensation was once again part of a clever, interesting and somewhat scary gesture by the team as they reported to the NHL bubble in Toronto alongside the Washington Capitals and others. A billboard in the city now features Gritty's large eyes staring deep into the soul of every driver passing by with words that mimic the song "Every Breath You Take" by The Police.

The Flyers bought a Gritty billboard in Toronto for the playoffs that can be seen on the way to the Scotiabank Arena because of course they did

(courtesy: Philadelphia Flyers / Steve Dormer) pic.twitter.com/wuSUhOSQdb
— Charlie O'Connor (@charlieo_conn) July 28, 2020

The billboard itself resembles the classic portrait from horror movies that features the eyes following a person no matter where they move to. Wondering how Gritty has been able to perfect that stare? Turns out he has learned how to live life without blinking.

Hockey is back.
People still think I'm creepy.
I haven't blinked in 2 years.
Life is good. pic.twitter.com/4CrrcR7QPH
— Gritty (@GrittyNHL) July 28, 2020

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Gritty has good reason to keep his eye on the Capitals, as the two teams will meet on Thursday, August 6, during a round-robin game to determine seeding for the playoffs. Additionally, though on the surface it is a funny gesture by the Flyers, Gritty's mentality of always watching is something NHL teams are trying to do in the bubble.

As Capitals head coach Todd Reirden alluded to, the hub city of Toronto gives teams the unique chance to scout opponents up close. However, due to the packed schedule of the restart, coaches themselves don't have the opportunity to get a first-hand look and will turn to others to help. Is Gritty the Flyers' secret weapon when it comes to scouting?

That question will remain unanswered, but there is one thing that the world now knows for sure: Gritty is always watching, always.

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