Stanley Cup Final: Hurricanes and Golden Knights Face Superstition

Teams Avoid Trophy Touching

The Stanley Cup Final is on the horizon with the Carolina Hurricanes set to face off against the Vegas Golden Knights. The Hurricanes secured their place in the Final after dominating the Montreal Canadiens in Game 5. However, both teams avoided touching their respective conference championship trophies due to superstition.

The tradition dictates that teams should avoid the Prince of Wales Trophy for the Eastern Conference and the Clarence S. Campbell Bowl for the Western Conference. The belief centers around these trophies not being the ultimate prize, which is the Stanley Cup.

Superstitions in Past Records

Analyzing the teams’ past encounters with these trophies reveals mixed results. Vegas captain Mark Stone avoided touching the Clarence Campbell Bowl, similar to his action in 2023. That year, the Golden Knights went on to win the Stanley Cup against the Florida Panthers.

In contrast, during their inaugural season in 2018, former captain Deryk Engelland touched the trophy. Despite picking it up and skating it around, they lost the Stanley Cup Final that year.

The Hurricanes have had varied experiences as well. In 2002, captain Ron Francis touched the Prince of Wales Trophy after defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs. They then lost the Finals to the Detroit Red Wings, known for their exceptionally strong roster.

In 2006, following victory over the Buffalo Sabres in Game 7, captain Rod Brind’Amour refrained from touching the trophy. This decision was followed by their Stanley Cup victory against the Edmonton Oilers.

Current Season and Speculations

For the current season, Carolina again avoided touching the trophy, supposedly under the suggestion of their head coach. Given these past records, either the Hurricanes or the Golden Knights will have to overcome the superstition.

This interesting twist will unfold during the game on Tuesday night in Raleigh. Which team will defy the superstition, and which will triumph? Enthusiasts can watch closely as both teams compete for the Stanley Cup.

For further updates, you can follow Matthew Reigle, a writer with OutKick.