What kind of sticks do NHL players use?

By Jayson Panganiban April 30, 2024 10:50

Photo by Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Hockey sticks are one of the most crucial pieces of equipment for any hockey player, including those at the professional level.

In the National Hockey League (NHL), players choose their sticks based on personal preference, playing style, and specific game requirements.

Types of Hockey Stick Blades

Blade Patterns and Curves

The blade patterns and curves of hockey sticks play a significant role in a player's performance. The blade pattern determines the lie, curve depth, face angle, toe shape, and length of the blade.

NHL players often have their own preferred blade patterns, which are usually named after them. For instance, the P92, W03, and P29 are commonly used blade patterns by NHL players.

Blade Face Angle

The face angle of the blade determines how much of the blade's front is visible when looking down at the ice.

Open face angles facilitate lifting the puck quickly, while closed or slightly open angles are better for stick handling and backhand shots.

Blade Toe

Blade toes come in round, square, or a combination of both shapes, each offering different advantages for players based on their playing style and position on the ice.

Hockey Stick Configurations

One-Piece Hockey Sticks

One-piece hockey sticks are the most common type used in the NHL, as they come with the shaft and blade fused together, meeting the manufacturer's specifications.

Two-Piece Hockey Sticks

Although less common than one-piece sticks, two-piece sticks allow players to mix-and-match shafts and blades, offering more flexibility and the ability to salvage one part if the other breaks.

Hockey Stick Flex and Length

Flex

Hockey stick flex refers to the stiffness rating of a stick and affects how it responds to force. Flex ratings vary based on the player's body weight, where a higher flex indicates a stiffer stick.

Length

The length of a hockey stick is crucial and varies based on the player's size and position. Standard stick lengths for junior, intermediate, and senior players are available, with recommended sizing based on the player's height and preference.

Differences Between Composite and Wood Sticks

Composite Sticks

Composite sticks have gained popularity due to their reduced weight, flexibility, and performance. They are known for their durability and are favored by many players for their enhanced features.

Wooden Sticks

Despite the popularity of composite sticks, some players still prefer wooden sticks due to personal preferences. The choice between composite and wood sticks often comes down to individual player preference and playing style.

NHL Player Preferences

Stick Brands and Player Preferences

Top NHL players have their own stick brand preferences, often using specific models and patterns based on their playing style and game requirements.

For example, Sidney Crosby is known for using a Ribcor Reckoner, while Connor McDavid sticks with an original Super Tacks, among others.

Stick Curves and Flex

NHL players often have specific blade curves and flex preferences based on their playing style, position, and shooting techniques.

Some players may prefer mid-curve blades for all-around performance, while others may opt for specific toe or heel curves based on their needs.

NHL players have diverse preferences when it comes to the type of hockey sticks they use. Factors such as blade patterns, flex, length, and stick configurations play crucial roles in their decision-making process.

Understanding the nuances of different stick types and player preferences can provide valuable insights for both amateur and professional hockey players in selecting the right equipment for their game.

By taking into account the information provided above, players can make informed decisions when choosing the most suitable hockey sticks based on their playing style, position, and individual preferences.