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The Frozen Chosen: Jewish players are making their mark in the NHL [1]

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Date: 2024-05-10  

With the exception of the early years of the NBA, there have not been large numbers of Jewish players in the 4 professional sports leagues (MLB, NFL, NBA, and NHL). That is quickly changing in the NHL (National Hockey League), where there are now more than 20 Jewish players and they are among the best in the league. Focus on Jewish players in the NHL began after the 2020-21 season when Long Island’s own Adam Fox of the New York Rangers was awarded the Norris Trophy, which goes to the league’s best defenseman. In doing so he became the 1st Jewish athlete to win a major end of season award since Ryan Braun won the National League MVP in 2011. Fox also became the only player other than Bobby Orr to win the award before their 3rd season in the league.

The 2023-24 season saw a number of Jewish players hit important milestones. Zach Hyman of the Edmonton Oilers became the 1st Jewish player to record 50 goals in a season. His 54 goals placed him 3rd in the league. For those of you who don’t follow hockey, that’s roughly equivalent to hitting 54 home runs in a season. Artemi Panarin of the New York Rangers became the 1st Jewish player to record 100 points in a season, blowing away that milestone with 120 points, which included 49 goals.

The Hughes Brothers: Luke, Quinn, and Jack

If you follow hockey, than you know that brothers Quinn and Jack Hughes have been great players from day one and are among the best players in the world. Their younger brother Luke just completed his 1st season and is a finalist for the Calder Trophy that goes to the NHL’s best rookie.

The last Jewish player I want to bring up, as much as it pains me, is Jeremy Swayman, goalie for the Boston Bruins, who was the difference as the Bruins eliminated my beloved Maple Leafs in the 1st round of the playoffs.

As a Jew who grew up playing hockey and was generally the only Jewish player despite growing up in Brooklyn, it brings great joy to not only see so many Jewish players in the NHL, but knowing they are some of the best players. I suspect this is a trend that is only going to continue. L’Chaim.

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