Breaking News: NHL Coach Stirs Controversy by Skipping Post-series Handshake Line, Argues for Player-only Tradition
In a move that has raised eyebrows in the hockey world, Florida Panthers coach Paul Maurice skipped the traditional post-series handshake line with the Carolina Hurricanes after they eliminated his team from the Eastern Conference Finals. Maurice, who has been vocal about his views on the handshake tradition, also asked Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour to skip the line-up, a request Brind’Amour agreed to. Despite being a respected hockey tradition, Maurice believes the handshake line should be exclusive to the players who competed on the ice, arguing that coaches, staff, and other personnel in suits detract from the moment. The incident has sparked a discussion about the age-old hockey ritual and its significance.
H2: A Coach’s Crusade: Paul Maurice’saxe to Historic NHL Handshake Tradition
The NHL playoffs always bring with them a hallmark moment of sportsmanship and respect – the post-series handshake line. But what if one of hockey’s most revered traditions evolved? Florida Panthers coach Paul Maurice has sparked a conversation about the future of this ritual, and it’s gaining traction.
Did You Know?
Since 2018, Maurice has been advocating for a change in the handshake protocol, one that shifts the focus back to the players who have battled on the ice.
H3: A Case for Change
Maurice, a veteran coach with over two decades of experience, believes that the handshake line has been diluted. It’s no longer just players shaking hands; coaches, staff, and support personnel have been joining in, sometimes numbering up to 400 people on the ice. "I don’t believe that the coaches should shake players’ hands at the end," Maurice asserts.
He’s not against the tradition per se; instead, he’s advocating for a more(player-centric approach. Maurice wants the handshake line to be a moment of pure emotion and respect between opponents, unfettered by the presence of coaches and staff.
Pro Tip
Maurice suggests that coaches and staff can still acknowledge their counterparts and opposing players, but they should do so away from the main handshake line, perhaps near the benches.
H3: A Coach in Agreement
Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour was the latest to agree with Maurice, skipping the handshake line after his team’s elimination. Brind’Amour, a Hurricanes legend and respected coach, added weight to Maurice’s cause.
Real-Life Example
Some teams have started to adopt Maurice’s approach. The Winnipeg Jets, coached by Maurice from 2014 to 2021, have been observing this modified handshake tradition.
H3: The Future of the Handshake
The NHL has a long history of respect and tradition, but times are changing. As the game evolves, so too could its ceremonies.
Did You Know?
The post-series handshake tradition dates back to the 1930s, and while it has evolved over time, this could be the first significant change in recent decades.
H3: FAQs
Q: Why is Maurice so invested in this change?
A: Maurice believes in the purity of the players’ moment. He wants the handshake line to be about the athletes who have earned it through their play on the ice.
Q: What do other coaches think?
A: While not all coaches share Maurice’s viewpoint, the conversation is growing, and some are openness to change.
Call-to-Action
What do you think about Maurice’s proposal? Should the NHL consider a change to the post-series handshake tradition? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and explore more of 247Sports’ coverage of the NHL playoffs. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on all the latest news and trends in the world of hockey.