Jordan Weal and the Playoff Beard Debate
Dynamo Moscow forward Jordan Weal addressed the idea of superstition in playoff hockey, saying he does not consider himself superstitious about shaving his beard during the post-season. His remarks touched on a broader tradition seen in hockey playoffs, where many players adhere to routines or rituals that they believe bring good luck. Weal stressed that while some players opt to grow beards or avoid shaving as a risk management tactic for momentum, the core focus remains on the team’s performance and preparation. He noted that his routine is simple and steady, centered on approaching each game both mentally and physically, rather than clinging to any superstition. What matters most, in his view, is how the players unite on the ice and execute their game plan together. The emphasis is on consistency in preparation and execution rather than on symbolic acts such as beard length. [Dynamo Moscow press briefing, attributed to team communications]
The current playoff picture features Dinamo Moscow facing Dinamo Minsk in the 1/8 final. Through two matches, Moscow holds a 2-0 lead in the series, signaling a strong start for the Russian side. The upcoming matchup is scheduled to take place in Minsk on March 6, continuing the battle for advancement in the tournament. These games are watched closely by fans who anticipate how the Russian team will translate home ice advantage into a continued series edge. [Match reports from the official league schedule]
CSKA Moscow currently holds the title of Gagarin Cup winner, having clinched the championship on the club’s 100th anniversary on April 29, 2023. In a decisive seventh game, the Army team defeated Ak Bars Kazan to claim the cup, underscoring CSKA’s enduring prestige in Russian hockey. The triumph is a milestone for the organization and a testament to its sustained performance at the highest level of the sport. [CSKA championship recap]
In another notable playoff moment, SKA featured in an overtime victory against Torpedo in a Gagarin Cup contest, illustrating the tight, late-stage drama that characterizes the tournament. Such overtime finishes highlight how positions can be decided in a single, decisive period, underscoring the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey. [League game summaries]