Ice hockey is a tough game. And those who like to watch such matches are not new to the fights that might happen on the ice. However, the game is about more than the strength and speed of the players. Ice hockey requires a good deal of strategic thinking, coordination and team play. Only then can the team become successful and get to the top. Perhaps that’s why many ice hockey players like to play games in their free time. It gives them a chance to improve their reflexes and strategic thinking and even play as a part of a team. Throughout the years, many NHL players admitted that they like to relax with a good game and even shared specific examples in some cases. Here are the NHL players who love to game.
Wayne Gretzky
Wayne Gretzky came into history as one of the best ice hockey players of all time. With all the achievements he experienced throughout his career, it is no wonder that “The Great One” became his nickname. During his time in NHL, he played with teams like Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues or the New York Rangers. Nowadays, it’s a well-known fact that he enjoys a good game when he has time. Earning he makes from the games often go to those who need the financial support the most. If you’d like to try your luck and play like Gretzky, look through the PlayLive’s play live casino guides. These guides might help you to find the right game for you. And remember to ask for professional help if you feel like you’re losing yourself to gaming and it affects your everyday life.
Auston Matthews
Auston Matthews is another name that should be well-known to all those who keep up with NHL. The center and alternate captain of the Toronto Maple Leaf’s has been with the team since 2016 and might be on the way to become one of the greatest players. Matthews is another ice hockey player who enjoys letting some steam off with a video game. More specifically, it has appeared throughout the media that he’s been trying to improve his skills in Fortnite and Call of Duty. As you’ll be able to notice further, these games are rather popular among the NHL players. And it’s no wonder. The skills they improve while playing a game can be included in their game and improve the results of their teams.
David Pastrnak
The Boston Bruins right winger David Pastrnak, born in the Czech Republic, has took the world of ice hockey by storm. When he was 21 years old, he became the youngest ever NHL player to score six points in one play off game. And when he was 20, he became the youngest Bruin to score 30 goals in a season. He is also one of the ice hockey players who fell for the charm of Fortnite. When he need to social distance in 2020, he invited fans to join him and play the video game together. That gave his fans an opportunity to join their favorite player and bond over an interest they have in common.
Mitch Marner
Mitch Marner is another player that all the fans of the Toronto Maple Leaf’s should know. The team’s right winger has become the second player ever to get a Memorial Cup, Wayne Gretzky 99 Award, Red Tilson Trophy, a Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy and CHL Player of the Year all in the same season. He is also one of the NHL players who talk quite openly about their love for gaming. Social media and interviews show that he’s played Fortnite and Call of Duty with his teammate Auston Matthews quite often. At the same time, he loves to play FIFA. And while football and ice hockey are very different, the game can still help players to improve their strategic thinking and awareness of their surroundings.
Nathan MacKinnon
Nathan MacKinnon, the forward of Colorado Avalanche, is currently one of the best ice hockey players in the world. With the exceptional performance throughout his career, he got nicknames like “Nate the Great” or “Winnin’ MacKinnon”. While it’s not for certain that he loves to play video games in his free time often, one thing is for certain. He’s been playing the PS5 game NHL 22. The game is an ideal option for those who live and breathe ice hockey. Take the opportunity to experience the game through the screen and become the star of the ice. Come up with strategies that will help your team to win and enjoy the way to the top of the chart.
Steven Stamkos
The center and captain of Tampa Bay Lightning, Steven Stamkos, is another player that you should know if you follow NHL. Earlier this year, he has become the first Lightning player to score 500 goals during his career. He is well on the way to solidify his place in the Hall of Fame in the future and he is constantly improving. NHL fans who enjoy gaming might be delighted to hear that Stamkos enjoys a good game of Call of Duty once in a while. The game is popular because it’s very fast-paced and competitive. It might also have a positive impact on your eye-to-hand coordination.
Conclusion: How Can Gaming Help Ice Hockey Players?
As you can see, there are many NHL players who like to sit down and spend some time with a good video game. However, it’s not only about the enjoyment and happiness that it might bring the players. In fact, the games might also help them to improve the skills that are crucial for their success on the ice. Some games might be able to improve their eye-to-hand coordination while others highlight the importance of positioning and teamwork. And when some players like to bet their money, they often donate their earnings to charities or people who need the money the most at the moment. So, even though it’s important that the players don’t spend too much time gaming, the hobby might have a positive effect on their careers.
