Welcome to the world of NHL hockey, where superstitions and rituals are just as important as goals and assists. Hockey players are known for their quirky habits and strange routines that they believe bring them good luck on the ice. Here are some of the strangest superstitions and rituals in the National Hockey League:
The Weirdest Pre-Game Rituals
NHL players have a lot of pregame rituals that they swear by. Some players like to listen to music or watch videos to get pumped up before a game. Others have more unique routines, such as eating the same meal every day or wearing the same pair of socks throughout an entire playoff run. One player even used to wear his underwear inside out! But perhaps the most bizarre pregame routine belongs to former goalie Patrick Roy, who would skate around the rink backward before each game.
Superstitions That Drive Players Crazy
Hockey is a sport full of superstition, and many players have certain things they must do to ensure victory. For example, some players refuse to step onto the ice until they’ve touched the boards with their stick. Others won’t touch the puck with their hand unless it’s absolutely necessary. And then there’s the story of former Bruins defenseman Ray Bourque, who refused to wash his equipment during the playoffs because he believed it brought him good luck.
Lucky Charms and Talismans in the NHL
Many NHL players carry talismans or lucky charms with them when they take the ice. These can range from simple objects like coins or stones to more elaborate items like stuffed animals or religious medals. Former Blackhawks forward Bryan Bickell carried a small figurine of himself with him wherever he went, while current Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has been seen tapping his helmet with his stick before each faceoff.
Bizarre Hockey Traditions Around the League
There are plenty of weird traditions in the NHL that have stood the test of time. For example, the Stanley Cup has its own set of rules for handling, including a requirement that each member of the winning team must spend one night with the trophy. Another tradition involves the practice of players throwing their sticks over the glass after a win, which is said to bring good luck for the next game.
Strange Habits of Famous NHL Players
Some of the most famous NHL players have had their fair share of strange habits over the years. Wayne Gretzky, widely considered the greatest hockey player of all time, used to tap his stick against the boards before each shift. Mario Lemieux, another Hall of Famer, would spin his stick between his hands before taking a shot. And let’s not forget about Tim Thomas, who famously wore a white mask instead of the traditional black one.
In conclusion, the world of NHL hockey is filled with superstitions and rituals that players believe bring them good luck on the ice. From pregame routines to lucky charms and bizarre traditions, these practices add an extra layer of excitement to the already thrilling sport of hockey. So the next time you catch a game, keep an eye out for any unusual behavior from your favorite players – they might be trying to conjure up some magic on the ice!