Hockey is one of the most popular sports in North America, and the National Hockey League (NHL) is home to some of the world’s best players. Here are 20 fun facts about NHL hockey that will blow your mind:
1. The Origins of NHL Hockey – Did you know that the first organized game of ice hockey was played on March 3, 1875? It took place at Victoria Skating Rink in Montreal, Canada.
2. The Most Successful Teams in NHL History – The Montreal Canadiens have won a record 24 Stanley Cups since they were founded in 1909. They also hold the longest winning streak with 16 consecutive wins during the 1976-77 season.
3. Unusual Superstitions and Rituals of NHL Players – Many NHL players have unique superstitions and rituals before games. For example, goalie Tim Thomas used to wear his pads inside out for good luck!
4. Surprising Records Set by NHL Players – Wayne Gretzky holds numerous records including the most goals scored (894), assists made (1,963), and points earned (2,857). He even has an award named after him called “The Great One.”
5. Bizarre Injuries Sustained During NHL Games – Some injuries sustained during NHL games can be quite bizarre. For instance, in 2014, player Evgeni Malkin fell into the boards while trying to avoid a hit from another player and broke his nose.
6. Interesting Facts About the Stanley Cup – Have you ever wondered how much the Stanley Cup weighs? Well, it’s actually only 34 pounds, which may surprise many people who think it would be heavier due to its size. Also, did you know that each team member gets their name engraved on the cup twice if they win it back-to-back years?
7. Little-Known Stories From Behind the Scenes of NHL Games – Ever heard of the “Curse of Muldoon”? Legend has it that when Boston Bruins coach Art Ross traded away defenseman Eddie Shore, he cursed the team saying they wouldn’t win another championship until they retired his number. Sure enough, it wasn’t until 1970 that they finally won again, after retiring Shore’s number.
8. Funny Moments That Have Happened on the Ice – There have been plenty of hilarious moments throughout NHL history. Who could forget when Penguins forward Max Talbot scored a goal against the Flyers dressed as Santa Claus or when Red Wings forward Darren McCarty fought Claude Lemieux while holding a stuffed animal?
9. The Science Behind NHL Skills Training – Today’s NHL players use cutting-edge technology and science to train their skills. For example, players often use motion capture technology to analyze their movements and identify areas where they need improvement.
10. Women’s Impact on NHL Hockey – While women haven’t traditionally had a large role in professional hockey, there have been several notable exceptions over the years. Cammi Granato became the first woman inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in 2010, and Manon Rhéaume became the first female goaltender to play in an NHL exhibition game in 1992.