The NHL playoff beard has become a tradition for hockey players. It’s more superstition than anything else, but it’s something fun the players take part in. It’s a perk of making the playoffs.
Most fans see no problem with hockey stars growing out their facial hair, but NBC Sports chairman Mark Lazarus is not most fans. He’s enjoying the growth of hockey on his network, but not so much the bearded chins and faces that come along with it.
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“The players won’t like this, but I wish they all would stop growing beards in the postseason,” Lazarus said, via the Chicago Tribune. “Let’s get their faces out there. Let’s talk about how young and attractive they are. What model citizens they are. (Hockey players) truly are one of a kind among professional athletes.
Ben Bishop (Getty Images)“I know it’s a tradition and superstition, but I think (the beards do) hurt recognition. They have a great opportunity with more endorsements. Or simply more recognition with fans saying, ‘That guy looks like the kid next door,’ which many of these guys do. I think that would be a nice thing.”
Lazarus is probably part of the 1 percent of the population that doesn’t appreciate the playoff beard. It’s such a tradition that it has its own Wikipedia page. Even the video game NHL 16 included playoff beards.
“I know there are some traditions and superstitions that you can’t mess with,” Lazarus said. “But this is one tradition I could do without.”
According to the Tribune, Lazarus said he’s talked with NHL officials, the NHL Players Association and even players in individual discussions to request shaves. They didn’t want any part of his ridiculous request.
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