Inspired by the heartwarming video Josh Allen received from the Oishei Children`s Hospital of Buffalo after his NFL MVP win, the NHL is rethinking its awards ceremony.
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reports that the league is moving away from a traditional made-for-TV awards show this year. Instead, the NHL aims to surprise players when they receive their year-end honors.
During the Saturday Headlines segment on Hockey Night in Canada, Friedman explained, “The NHL watched the Allen video and thought, `maybe we can adopt a similar approach.`” The goal is to create an “element of surprise” for the award recipients.
Expanding on the idea, Friedman suggested, “Instead of children congratulating Allen, imagine them informing an NHL player that they have won an award.”
In the previous season, stars like Connor McDavid, Quinn Hughes, and Connor Hellebuyck were recognized at the NHL awards show. However, the event has often faced criticism for being perceived as awkward and unexciting.
This feedback has prompted the NHL to explore innovative ways to announce award winners and boost public engagement.
Friedman speculated on potential surprise scenarios: “It could be a friend, family member, or mentor presenting the award to an NHL player unexpectedly. Or, perhaps a playful prank that culminates in the player being informed of their award win.”
The 2024 NHL Awards took place on June 27 in Las Vegas, following the Stanley Cup Final and preceding the NHL Draft and free agency.
Utilizing viral-style moments to reveal award winners could allow the NHL to announce awards earlier, possibly similar to the NBA`s approach during the early stages of the playoffs.
“We might see this new format implemented during the playoffs,” Friedman noted. “However, major awards like the Hart Trophy might be reserved for a more elaborate, pre-produced show airing during the Stanley Cup Final.”
Tristan Blackwood