NHL Players Reveal League’s Most Punchable Faces: Cousins, Marchand, Makar
In the NHL, fighting is a unique aspect of the game. While other sports impose hefty penalties for physical altercations, hockey players often face minimal consequences. This environment has led to colorful opinions among players about who in the league has the most “punchable” face.
NHL Players’ Top Picks for Most Punchable Faces
A recent survey of 120 NHL players revealed their choices for the most punchable faces in the league. Leading the pack were a few familiar names, each with reasons reflecting their on-ice behavior. Here’s a breakdown of the top contenders.
1. Nick Cousins
- Votes: 24.3 percent
- Team: Ottawa Senators
Nick Cousins emerged as the frontrunner. Known for his aggressive style, he has had 21 fights in his career. Players expressed mixed feelings, acknowledging his effectiveness while criticizing his tactics. Many consider him a “rat,” noting he plays under players’ skins effectively.
2. Brad Marchand
- Votes: 19.6 percent
Brad Marchand, a known pest on the ice, followed closely behind Cousins. His reputation for annoying opponents earned him consistent mentions. Despite being considered a great player by many, he’s seen as someone players dislike facing on the ice.
3. Matthew Tkachuk
- Votes: 10.3 percent
Matthew Tkachuk’s tough style in front of the net positions him as a player that others love to hate. His ability to stir up offense while being difficult to play against did not go unnoticed.
4. Joel Eriksson Ek
- Votes: 4.7 percent
- Team: Minnesota Wild
Interestingly, most votes for Joel Eriksson Ek came from his teammates. One player indicated that if he weren’t on their side, he’d likely be quite annoying.
5. Garnett Hathaway
- Votes: 2.8 percent
Players described Garnett Hathaway using simple yet effective descriptors. One noted he is just “annoying,” reinforcing the subjective nature of “punchable” qualities.
Other Notable Mentions
- Brandt Clarke: 1.9 percent – “Everyone hates him.”
- Dylan Cozens: 1.9 percent – Associated with the league’s “rats.”
- Chris Kreider: 1.9 percent – Expressed strong dislike.
- Dylan Larkin: 1.9 percent – Noted for his performance lately.
- Cale Makar: 1.9 percent – Disliked for his exceptional skill.
This lighthearted survey reveals a unique camaraderie among NHL players, reflecting their shared experiences on the ice. Regardless of the rankings, it’s clear that these athletes understand the competitive nature of their sport, which often fosters playful rivalries and heated emotions.
As the NHL season progresses, it’ll be interesting to see if these feelings change or new faces emerge in these discussions.
