The Tradition of the NHL Handshake Line: A Sign of Respect After Playoff Series

The tradition of the handshake line in the NHL playoffs is a unique and special aspect of the sport that sets hockey apart from other professional leagues. No matter how intense and physical a series may be, once the final buzzer sounds, players from both teams come together to show respect and sportsmanship.

The origins of the handshake line date back over 100 years, with the first documented instance in hockey occurring in 1908 during an All-Star game in the Eastern Canada Amateur Hockey Association. Since then, the tradition has become a staple in the NHL playoffs, with players and coaches lining up to exchange pleasantries after a hard-fought series.

While the majority of interactions in the handshake line are cordial and respectful, there have been a few instances where tensions boiled over. In 2012, during a series between the Kings and Coyotes, a controversial hit by Dustin Brown led to heated exchanges in the handshake line. Similarly, in 2014, a rivalry between the Bruins and Canadiens reached a boiling point, with Milan Lucic allegedly making a threatening remark to Dale Weise.

Despite these rare moments of animosity, the handshake line remains a cherished tradition in the NHL playoffs. It serves as a reminder of the camaraderie and mutual respect that exists among players, even in the heat of competition. As the playoffs continue and teams battle for the ultimate prize, fans can look forward to seeing this time-honored tradition play out on the ice once again.