NHL Players Reveal Their Least Favorite Cities in Anonymous Survey
Even millionaire athletes have their gripes. In a recent anonymous survey conducted by The athletic, 111 NHL players shared their unfiltered thoughts on the cities they’d least like to play in. From freezing temperatures to losing streaks,the reasons were as varied as the players themselves.
Winnipeg: Cold, Quiet, and Unloved
Table of Contents
- NHL Players Reveal Their Favorite Coaches to Play For
- NHL Coaches and Facilities: What Players Really Think
- NHL Players Reveal the Best and Worst Arenas in the League
- NHL Players Divided Over In-Season Tournaments and Season Length
- NHL Players Debate Season Length and Gary Bettman’s Legacy
Despite the Winnipeg Jets’ success on the ice, the city itself remains a tough sell for players. “There’s not much to do out there,” one player said. “it’s f—ing cold. I haven’t heard a guy go to Winnipeg and be like, ‘This is going to be my forever home.’” Another echoed the sentiment, calling it “nothing to do, bad food, freezing.”
One Jets player defended his city, pointing out that visiting players often miss its best parts.“I remember when I first did it, it was underwhelming. There are parts of the city that are great, but you don’t see that (as a visiting player).I always wish that they’d stay down at the Forks or somewhere like that. I don’t think that hotel meets the criteria for the league, but it would be better than staying downtown.”
Buffalo: A Losing Streak and High Taxes
Just across Niagara Falls, the Buffalo Sabres were another frequent target. With the team on track for its 14th straight season without a playoff appearance, players weren’t shy about their reluctance to join the franchise. “The way it’s going there, Buffalo — it’s just been kind of mucky there forever,” one player said. “And for me right now in my career, I don’t really need that.It’s not gonna help me.”
Another cited high taxes and organizational struggles, though he acknowledged some players enjoy it. “They haven’t made the playoffs in like 14 years. In saying that,I have some friends there and they love playing there.”
Philadelphia: A City of Strong Opinions
One player’s disdain for Philadelphia stood out. “Honestly, I wouldn’t even mind Winnipeg,” he said. “It’s not that nice, but I just hate Philly. I just hate Philly. I can’t stand it. I can’t stand the city, everything. It’s the rink. It’s just one city that I absolutely despise. I can’t stand it. I’d be sick if I got traded there. If I had a one-team no-trade list, they’d be on it in a second.”
A Broader Rejection of Canadian Teams
Some players took a broader stance,rejecting all seven Canadian teams. The combination of harsh weather, high taxes, and intense media scrutiny made them less appealing. “It’s just not worth it,” one player said.
Not Everyone’s Picky
Amid the complaints, one player offered a refreshing viewpoint. “I’d feel lucky to play anywhere,” he said.
Key Takeaways
Here’s a summary of the players’ least favorite cities and their reasons:
| City | Reasons |
|—————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Winnipeg | Cold, limited activities, underwhelming for visitors |
| Buffalo | Long playoff drought, high taxes, organizational struggles |
| Philadelphia | Dislike for the city, arena, and overall environment |
| Canadian Teams | Harsh weather, high taxes, media scrutiny |
While the NHL is a dream job for many, it’s clear that not all cities are created equal in the eyes of its players. For more insights, check out the full survey results here.
NHL Players Reveal Their Favorite Coaches to Play For
When it comes to NHL coaches, players have strong opinions about who they’d most like to play for—and who they’d rather avoid. A recent survey of players revealed some engaging insights into the league’s most respected and intriguing bench bosses.
The Top Picks: Coaches Players Love
it’s no surprise that some of the NHL’s most prosperous coaches topped the list. Winning matters, and players gravitate toward leaders who have proven they can deliver results.
Jon cooper of the Tampa Bay Lightning is a fan favorite. “I like his persona,” one player said. Cooper’s calm demeanor and ability to lead the Lightning to multiple Stanley Cup victories have earned him widespread admiration.
Similarly,Jared Bednar of the Colorado Avalanche is highly regarded. One player couldn’t choose between Cooper and Bednar, saying, “Their teams play such nice hockey. They play fast. If I were to turn the TV on, I would probably look at those two teams because they play beautiful hockey.”
Rod Brind’amour of the Carolina Hurricanes has also built a strong reputation. Players who’ve worked with him often become vocal advocates for his coaching style. “I’ve heard he rewards players that are committed and work hard,” one player noted. “I think that would fit my traits, and we coudl build a good relationship. He’s someone you want to play for, and he’s also had good success in Carolina.”
Another player praised Brind’Amour’s straightforward approach: “No matter what kind of team they have, or how it looks on paper, they’re always a fast, hard-to-play team.”
Paul Maurice of the Florida Panthers has also won over players with his big personality and recent Stanley Cup victory. “Those interviews during the playoffs?” one player remarked. “I mean, yeah. hard not to like him.”
The Curious Case of john Tortorella
While John Tortorella of the Philadelphia Flyers is often polarizing, he still garnered some surprising support. One player, who admitted to disliking Philadelphia, said, “he’s in philly, but I would just like to experience how it feels to be under Torts. There’d probably be some funny stuff going on on the bench.I’d just love to hear it sometime.”
the curiosity factor is high with Tortorella. “I’d like to experience Torts,” another player said. “You hear stories. I’d like to see it for myself.”
Despite his fiery reputation, Tortorella is also known for fiercely supporting his players.“I’ve heard he’s got his team’s back,” one player said. “he’ll take care of his players.”
Coaches Players Would Least like to Play For
While the survey highlighted coaches players admire, it also revealed those they’d rather avoid. Tortorella topped this list as well, with his intense style proving too much for some.
Key Takeaways
| Category | Top coaches | Key Traits |
|—————————-|————————————-|———————————————|
| Most Desired Coaches | Jon Cooper, Jared Bednar, Rod Brind’Amour, Paul Maurice | Winning records, player-friendly, straightforward |
| Most polarizing Coach | John Tortorella | Intense, supportive, curiosity-inducing |
Final Thoughts
The NHL’s coaching landscape is as diverse as the players themselves. From the calm leadership of Jon Cooper to the fiery intensity of John Tortorella, each coach brings a unique style that resonates—or clashes—with players. As the league evolves, so too will the relationships between coaches and their teams, shaping the future of hockey.
What’s clear is that success, personality, and player support are the hallmarks of the NHL’s most admired coaches.Whether it’s the allure of a Stanley cup or the curiosity of a fiery bench presence, players know what they’re looking for in a leader.
NHL Coaches and Facilities: What Players Really Think
the NHL is a league where coaching styles and team facilities can make or break a player’s experience.Recent insights from players reveal candid opinions about some of the league’s most prominent coaches and the facilities they encounter on the road.
The Coaches: Praise and Criticism
Mike Babcock: A Polarizing Figure
Mike Babcock, once a revered name in NHL coaching, has seen his reputation take a hit. After his abrupt exit from the Columbus Blue Jackets, players seem relieved he’s no longer behind the bench. “I just think he’s too old,” one player said. “I don’t think he understands the game anymore. That’s what I hear from the guys that play for him, that he just doesn’t know what’s going on most of the time.” Another player simply stated, “Been there. Lived it.”
Bruce Cassidy: Mixed Reviews
Bruce Cassidy, who led the Vegas Golden Knights to a Stanley Cup victory, surprisingly drew mixed reviews. “I haven’t heard too many good things about the Vegas coach, Cassidy,” one player admitted. “I don’t really know him that well, but I haven’t heard anything good about him.” Despite his success,Cassidy’s coaching style appears to be a point of contention among players.
Greg Cronin: A Mystery to Some
Anaheim Ducks coach Greg Cronin remains an enigma to some players. “Who is Anaheim’s coach?” one player asked before adding, “I’ve heard from other players that he’s not great to play for. They have a lot of decent skill that they should be a good team, but they’re not.”
rod Brind’Amour: Intimidating Presence
Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour received a unique vote of confidence. “Just because he’s way more in shape than I am, so he’d be intimidating,” a player joked.
The Facilities: New Arenas Shine
When it comes to facilities, newer arenas consistently rank higher among players. However, utah’s 34-year-old Delta center defied expectations. “Utah was frickin’ nice,” one player raved. “Like, they had a full-on gym for us. Ice cold tubs, hot tubs that were like $10,000 each. We shared with the basketball guys. Our (visitors’) room is huge. Medical room is bigger than our medical room here.”
Other modern arenas like the Detroit Red Wings’ Little Caesars Arena, Seattle Kraken’s Climate Pledge Arena, Edmonton Oilers’ Rogers Place, Vegas golden Knights’ T-Mobile arena, and New York Islanders’ UBS Arena also received high marks. “Really,any of the new rinks are top-notch,” a player noted.
Key Takeaways
| category | Insights |
|———————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Coaches | Mike Babcock criticized for being out of touch; Bruce Cassidy’s mixed reviews; Greg Cronin’s anonymity; Rod Brind’Amour’s intimidation factor. |
| Facilities | newer arenas like little Caesars Arena and Climate Pledge Arena lead the pack; Utah’s Delta Center surprises with luxury amenities. |
Final Thoughts
The NHL is a league where player experiences vary widely, from the coaching styles they encounter to the facilities they use on the road. While newer arenas continue to set the standard, some older venues like Utah’s Delta Center prove that age isn’t always a barrier to excellence.As for coaches, the divide between success and player satisfaction remains a fascinating dynamic in the league.
What do you think about these player insights? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
NHL Players Reveal the Best and Worst Arenas in the League
When it comes to NHL arenas, not all facilities are created equal. Players have strong opinions about the rinks they visit, from the spacious and modern to the cramped and outdated. In a recent survey, NHL players shared their thoughts on the best and worst arenas in the league, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what makes or breaks a game-day experience.
The Best Arenas: Modern and Player-Friendly
UBS Arena and Climate Pledge Arena emerged as clear favorites among players. “I don’t know which arena came first, UBS or Climate Pledge, but they’re modeled very similarly,” one player said. “They have a lot more room and it feels cleaner.” these newer facilities prioritize player comfort, offering ample space and modern amenities that make a noticeable difference.
Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena also earned praise, especially for its gym facilities. “Just because of the gym,” one player noted. “It’s pretty nice. I don’t know if the room’s the best, but the gym’s the best without a doubt.” Another player added, “Detroit’s gym comes to mind as a really good setup. You’ve got everything you need there, and it’s well laid out.”
Minnesota’s Xcel Energy Center stood out for its visitor locker room, which is the largest in the league. “The locker room is unreal,” one player raved.
The Worst Arenas: Cramped and Outdated
On the flip side, Carolina’s PNC Arena was overwhelmingly criticized. Despite a recent renovation, players found the facilities lacking. “It used to be Carolina, but then they upgraded,” one player said. “And somehow it’s still Carolina.” Another added, “The visiting room sucks. And the home room is basically the visiting room with some paint on the walls. So, yeah, pretty s—-y.”
other arenas didn’t fare much better. Washington’s Capital One Arena was described as “by far the worst. It’s the smallest room ever and a million degrees in there. I hate playing there.” Anaheim’s Honda Center also drew criticism, with one player saying, “The dressing room is fine, but the other amenities, like the cold tub and where you warm up, it’s in an old office.You don’t know where you’re going. it’s the worst in the league.”
Even iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena weren’t spared. “It’s just so small. You don’t have anywhere to warm up,” one player said of MSG. Another described Toronto’s setup as “awful. There’s not even a curtain. You’re just on the gross, dirty concrete.”
A Summary of Player Opinions
| Arena | Player Feedback |
|————————–|————————————————————————————|
| UBS Arena | “A lot more room and it feels cleaner.” |
| Climate Pledge Arena | Modeled similarly to UBS, spacious and modern. |
| Little Caesars Arena | “The gym’s the best for sure.” |
| Xcel Energy Center | “The locker room is unreal.” |
| PNC Arena | “Somehow it’s still Carolina.” |
| Capital One Arena | “by far the worst. It’s the smallest room ever and a million degrees in there.” |
| Honda Center | “The worst in the league.” |
| Madison Square Garden | “It’s just so small. You don’t have anywhere to warm up.” |
| Scotiabank Arena | “Awful. There’s not even a curtain.” |
The Bigger Picture
While newer arenas like UBS and Climate Pledge set a high standard, older facilities are struggling to keep up. As one player noted, “Not a lot of away spots have decent gym setups, but the newer rinks have setups that are acceptable, for the lack of a better word.”
For teams looking to improve their facilities, the message is clear: invest in player comfort. As the NHL continues to grow, modern amenities and spacious locker rooms could become a key factor in attracting top talent.
What do you think about the state of NHL arenas? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation on Twitter.
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This article is based on player feedback from a recent NHL survey. For more insights, check out the full report here.
NHL Players Divided Over In-Season Tournaments and Season Length
The NHL season is a grueling marathon, but recent discussions among players have sparked debates about the potential introduction of in-season tournaments and the length of the preseason. While some see these changes as a way to boost revenue and fan engagement, others remain skeptical, arguing that the Stanley Cup remains the ultimate prize.
The Case for In-Season Tournaments
Inspired by the success of the NBA Cup, some NHL players believe an in-season tournament could inject excitement into the regular season. “I think it’d mix it up,” one player said.”Chance to win some money. Fun way to break up the season. Guys would get into it.” Others echoed this sentiment, noting that higher-stakes games could reignite rivalries and keep fans engaged.
Though, not everyone is convinced. Critics argue that such tournaments might feel redundant. “you would still play against the same teams, same lineups, so I don’t think it would have so much of a future in this sport,” one player reasoned. For many, the Stanley Cup remains the pinnacle of achievement. “We play for the hardest trophy in the world,” one player emphasized.
preseason: Too Long or Just Right?
Another hot topic among players is the length of the preseason. Of the 108 players surveyed, 47 shared their thoughts, with ten specifically calling for a shorter preseason. “Preseason is too long,” one player stated. ”I think we should start the third week of September. June 1 should be Game 7 of the Cup final.”
This sentiment aligns with discussions led by the Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun, who has long advocated for a more condensed NHL calendar. Players argue that a shorter preseason could reduce fatigue and injuries, allowing them to focus on the games that truly matter.
International Play vs. In-Season Tournaments
Some players suggested that international competitions, like the proposed 4 Nations tournament, might be a better choice to in-season tournaments.”It should be something like the 4 Nations, on a global scale,” one player said. This approach would allow players to represent their countries while maintaining the integrity of the NHL season.
Key Takeaways
| Topic | Player Sentiment |
|————————–|————————————————————————————-|
| In-Season Tournaments | Mixed; some see potential for revenue and fan engagement, others find it redundant.|
| Preseason Length | Many players advocate for a shorter preseason to reduce fatigue and injuries. |
| International Play | preferred by some as a way to add excitement without disrupting the NHL season.|
The Road Ahead
As the NHL continues to evolve,these debates highlight the challenges of balancing tradition with innovation.While in-season tournaments and international play offer exciting possibilities, the Stanley Cup remains the ultimate goal for players and fans alike.What do you think? Should the NHL introduce an in-season tournament, or is the Stanley Cup enough? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
For more insights into the NHL calendar debate, check out Pierre LeBrun’s analysis on The Athletic.
NHL Players Debate Season Length and Gary Bettman’s Legacy
The NHL’s grueling 82-game season has long been a topic of debate among players, coaches, and fans. While some argue it’s essential for maintaining the league’s competitive balance, others believe it’s time for a change. Amidst this discussion, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman’s leadership has also come under scrutiny, with players weighing in on his impact on the sport.
The 82-Game Grind: Too Much or Just Right?
for many players, the NHL season is a marathon, not a sprint. The physical toll of 82 games, combined with back-to-back matchups and the intensity of the sport, has led some to call for a shorter schedule.“I think 72 to 75 would probably be better,especially for teams going deep every year,” one player said. Another added, “I just find the way these back-to-backs are set up are insane sometimes. I think there would be a higher quality of games if we had less.”
Though, not everyone is on board with reducing the season. “If it was a little shorter,you’d see the teams that got off to a slow start not be able to catch up,” one player argued. “And vice versa, where teams start off hot and tail off at the end. I think it’s a good balance. It gives young guys an chance to come up at the end of the season and play.”
The financial implications of a shorter season are also a concern. “I would like it to be 62 games,” one player admitted. “But I understand the economics of it. If we play 62 games, we’re all going to get paid 75 percent of what we make.”
Ultimately, many players seem resigned to the status quo. “You could take it down to like 70; that’d be perfect,” one player said. “But then it’s just 12 extra games. Just play them.”
Gary Bettman’s legacy: A Mixed Bag?
While the debate over season length continues,NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman’s tenure has sparked its own conversation. Despite criticism from some quarters, Bettman has a surprising number of supporters within the league.
“I think he’s done a great job with the league,” one player said. “It keeps growing.” Another added, “we’ve had the least turmoil of most leagues. I’m fine with him.”
Bettman’s ability to secure lucrative TV deals and navigate the challenges of COVID-19 has also earned him praise. “I feel like he’s done a pretty good job with our sport in terms of getting TV deals,” one player noted. “Obviously, it was crappy timing with COVID and escrow and whatnot, but I feel like the salary cap is going up, TV deals are going up. I think our sport is in a good spot, so he’s done a decent job.”
However, not everyone is convinced. “This may be unpopular, but I think he’s done a nice job of stabilizing our league,” one player said, hinting at lingering skepticism.
The Future of the NHL
As the league continues to grow,questions about its direction remain. With the recent announcement of a skyrocketing salary cap, players are set to benefit financially, but the debate over season length and Bettman’s leadership shows no signs of slowing down.
“He’s put the league in a good spot,” one player said. “He’s ready, but if he keeps growing the game … we’re not playing escrow anymore … why leave now?”
| Key Points | Summary |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Season Length Debate | Players are divided on whether the 82-game season is too long or just right.|
| Financial Implications | A shorter season could mean lower salaries for players. |
| Gary Bettman’s Leadership | Many players praise Bettman for growing the league and securing TV deals. |
| Future of the NHL | With a rising salary cap, the league is poised for continued growth. |
As the NHL evolves, the voices of its players will continue to shape its future. Whether it’s adjusting the season length or evaluating bettman’s legacy, one thing is clear: the league is at a crossroads, and its next steps will be crucial.The NHL is at a crossroads, with players and insiders calling for a cultural shift to make hockey more accessible and engaging. “The culture of the league needs to change,” one insider said. “The league needs to make hockey more accessible to lots of people. Stephen A. Smith doesn’t get fired up about hockey, and he should be.” This sentiment reflects a growing desire to broaden the sport’s appeal beyond its traditional fanbase.
Amid these calls for change,there’s also speculation about the future of NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. Some players believe Bettman may step down after negotiating one last collective-bargaining agreement to leave the league in a strong position. “A couple of players said they expect Bettman to step down after one last collective-bargaining agreement so he can leave the league in a good place,” the report noted. Others, however, are less charitable.One player bluntly stated, “I don’t even know what that f—ing guy does.”
The idea of a leadership transition has sparked mixed reactions. “I think it would be good to have a fresh face,” one insider remarked. Another acknowledged the challenges of the role, saying, “It’s such a hard job. You’re not ever going to be liked. He had a good run. Let somebody else step in now.” These comments highlight the complexity of Bettman’s tenure and the divided opinions about his legacy.
to better understand the key points, here’s a summary of the perspectives shared:
| Perspective | Key Quote |
|——————————————|——————————————————————————-|
| Need for cultural change | “The league needs to make hockey more accessible to lots of people.” |
| Speculation about Bettman’s future | “A couple of players said they expect Bettman to step down after one last CBA.”|
| Calls for new leadership | “I think it would be good to have a fresh face.” |
| Criticism of Bettman’s role | “I don’t even know what that f—ing guy does.” |
As the NHL navigates these discussions, the focus remains on how to grow the sport and ensure its leadership aligns with the evolving needs of players and fans. Whether bettman stays or steps aside, the league faces a pivotal moment in its history. For more insights into the NHL’s future, explore the full report here.
Q&A: Insights on the NHL’s Future and Leadership
Editor: There’s been a lot of discussion about the length of the NHL season. What are the players’ perspectives on this issue?
Guest: Players are divided on whether the 82-game season is too long or just right. Some feel it’s a grueling schedule that takes a toll on their bodies, while others beleive it’s the right balance for maintaining the league’s revenue and competitive integrity.
Editor: How do financial factors come into play with the season length debate?
Guest: A shorter season could mean lower salaries for players, as fewer games would likely result in reduced revenue.this is a significant concern,especially with the recent proclamation of a skyrocketing salary cap that players are set to benefit from.
Editor: Gary Bettman’s leadership has been a topic of conversation. What’s the general sentiment among players?
Guest: Many players praise Bettman for growing the league and securing lucrative TV deals. His ability to navigate the challenges of COVID-19 has also earned him respect. Though, there’s lingering skepticism, with some players questioning his overall impact and even speculating about his potential departure.
Editor: What’s the speculation around Bettman’s future?
Guest: Some players believe Bettman may step down after negotiating one last collective-bargaining agreement to leave the league in a strong position. Others are less charitable, with one player bluntly stating, “I don’t even know what that f—ing guy does.”
Editor: There’s also talk about the need for cultural change in the NHL. Can you elaborate on that?
Guest: Yes, there’s a growing desire to make hockey more accessible and engaging. The league needs to broaden its appeal beyond its customary fanbase. As one insider put it, “The culture of the league needs to change. The league needs to make hockey more accessible to lots of people.”
Editor: What are the calls for new leadership,and why?
Guest: Some insiders feel it’s time for a fresh face to lead the NHL. They acknowledge the challenges of the role but believe a new perspective could benefit the league. As one insider remarked, “It’s such a hard job. You’re not ever going to be liked. He had a good run. Let somebody else step in now.”
Conclusion
The NHL is at a crossroads, with players and insiders calling for changes in season length, leadership, and cultural accessibility. While many praise Gary Bettman for his contributions, there’s a growing sentiment that the league may benefit from new leadership and a fresh approach to growing the sport. As the salary cap rises and the league evolves, the voices of its players will continue to shape its future.
