In Game 7 of the NHL Stanley Cup Finals on Monday, June 24, 2024, Edmonton Oilers star Connor McDavid (No. 97) delivered a hard check to Florida Panthers forward Eetu Luostarinen (No. 27) against the boards while controlling the puck during the second period. The match took place in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo credit: Nathan Denette, The Canadian Press).
A new documentary series, Faceoff: Inside the NHL, set to air on Amazon Prime next month, is generating buzz for showcasing an emotional side of NHL players, especially Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, rarely seen by the public. A preview clip from the series reveals an intense moment where McDavid is seen shouting in the locker room after the Oilers lost Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final to the Florida Panthers. In the brief, yet powerful clip, McDavid yells, "That’s not good enough! It's the finals! Dig in right now!"—a rare glimpse of the usually composed hockey superstar in a vulnerable and heated state.
The series, composed of six episodes, promises "unprecedented access" to the NHL’s biggest stars and teams, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at the emotional highs and lows of the players during one of the most critical moments in their careers. Episodes 5 and 6 will focus on McDavid, his teammates Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman, as well as Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk. These episodes, titled Cup Or Bust, cover the drama surrounding the Stanley Cup Final in June.
Speaking to the media, McDavid reflected on the series, explaining that it captures the Oilers during their "most intense and meaningful moments." He believes fans will appreciate the raw emotions and vulnerability displayed throughout. He acknowledged the discomfort of letting cameras into such personal and high-stakes moments, but he also recognized that it's part of showing the complete journey of an athlete.
Zach Hyman, one of McDavid's teammates, also commented on the trailer, emphasizing that McDavid’s emotional outburst is not out of character among his fellow players. “To the outside world, he might seem quieter and more reserved, but to us, he's Connor,” Hyman said. He went on to describe McDavid as a phenomenal leader who carries the team’s pressure and consistently strives to elevate everyone’s game.
McDavid's ability to express his emotions, whether joy or heartbreak, is a key theme of the series, as he explains that fans will see the human side of the players, not just their professional personas on the ice. He hopes that viewers will appreciate the hard work and dedication that NHL athletes put in both on and off the rink.
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch, who has known McDavid since his teenage years, praised the captain, highlighting his exceptional leadership and commitment to constant self-improvement. Knoblauch acknowledged that while McDavid is often recognized for his extraordinary skills on the ice, his leadership and drive to push himself and his team further often go unnoticed. He believes McDavid deserves more recognition for his leadership qualities, which will be evident to viewers in the upcoming series.
The documentary not only focuses on McDavid but also shines a light on other NHL stars like William Nylander of the Toronto Maple Leafs, David Pasternak of the Boston Bruins, Jack Eichel of the Vegas Golden Knights, and Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks, providing fans with a broader look at the league's biggest personalities.
Face off: Inside the NHL premieres on October 4, offering hockey enthusiasts an intimate and emotional view of their favourite players and the intense world of professional hockey.
