A playoff beard is the superstitious practice of a National Hockey League player not shaving his beard during the Stanley Cup playoffs.
The player stops shaving when his team enters the playoffs and does not shave until his team is eliminated or wins the Stanley Cup.
It is believed that the tradition was started in the 1980s by the New York Islanders.
The tradition is also practiced by nearly all North American hockey leagues, to include high school leagues and the NCAA hockey teams, as well as minor league affiliates.
The tradition has also spread to hockey leagues in Europe.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Playoff_beard
It's tradition!
Hockey players began wearing helmets during games in the 1970s, with the National Hockey League (NHL) making it mandatory for all players in 1979.
because they cant afford to take stupid penalties in really important games
There are typically six players on the ice during a game of 6-hole hockey.
Hockey players often sniff smelling salts on the bench during games to help increase alertness and focus.
Somewhat, yes. Most hockey players will get injured during their careers.
Hockey players typically make substitutions during a game based on the coach's instructions, the flow of the game, and the players' energy levels. They often switch out players during stoppages in play or when there is a strategic advantage to do so.
become a Canucks fan
Hockey players substitute frequently during games to maintain high energy levels and prevent fatigue. By rotating players in and out, teams can keep their players fresh and maximize their performance on the ice.
Because it is a away game they're not playing in their home arena.
They last met in the playoffs during the 2009-2010 in Vancouver,GM Place and I am a girl which knows alot about hockey!
Steve Smith, then of the Edmonton Oilers.