Montreal Canadiens legend Guy LaFleur isn’t a fan of wild playoff beards.
In an interview with the Montreal Gazette, the 64-year-old Hockey Hall of Famer said that he’s not a fan of long beards like the ones worn by San Jose Sharks’ Brent Bruns or Joe Thornton.
“I think it’s a disgrace for hockey. I hate it. It’s not a good image for the NHL,” said Lafleur. “I don’t mind a guy wearing a beard, but to his belly … enough is enough. The team’s managers should put their foot down.
“They can’t see the puck,” Lafleur added with a laugh. “That’s why they’re struggling.”
That’s a weird stance to take. He’s pro-beard, but not pro-crazy beard? Personally, I think the beards Burns and Thornton have are incredible and add some personality to the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Lafleur being the old, crusty man that the is, is making some seriously asinine comments. People who wear long beards are a disgrace? A manager should put their foot down? There are much more pressing issues than someone’s beard length.
The NHL doesn’t operate like the New York Yankees. There’s no facial hair policy, especially in the NHL playoffs where beards reign supreme and are even encouraged. It’s one of the best parts of the postseason. Burns keeping up the look in the regular season is a bonus if anything.
Honestly, Lafleur is being a jackass with his remarks. It’s a great image for the NHL. Beards are rad. Long beards are more rad. Lafleur is a hockey legend, but that doesn’t mean he’s always right. In this case, he’s very, very wrong.
