Mark Robert Rank, Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis
With low-scoring games and a preponderance of deflected shots, randomness is much more likely to color NHL teams’ records than those of squads in the other four major US pro sports leagues.
Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Nicolas Hague celebrates after scoring against the Edmonton Oilers during Game 5 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup second-round playoff series on May 12 in Las Vegas.
(AP Photo/John Locher)
Superstitions have a role in helping hockey fans and players feel more in control of the game.
Toronto Maple Leafs center John Tavares celebrates his game-winning goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 6 of the first round of the NHL Stanley Cup playoffs on April 29 in Tampa, Fla. It’s the Leafs first playoff series win since 2004.
(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)