NHL Players Increasingly Choosing Cannabis and Video Games Over Alcohol and Partying
A shift in lifestyle is becoming evident in the National Hockey League (NHL), with more players opting for cannabis products and video games instead of alcohol and late-night partying.
A recent survey conducted by The New York Times revealed that more than one-third of NHL players across various teams regularly use cannabis products. Edibles, such as cannabis-infused gummies and other consumables, have gained significant popularity, with nearly two-thirds of respondents indicating they consume them.
According to Florida Panthers player Nate Schmidt, there has been a noticeable cultural shift within the league. “In the past, team bonding often involved drinking and going out, but younger players today prioritize their performance and health,” Schmidt explained. “They don’t want to risk their form just to fit into old habits.”
The NHL is one of the few professional sports leagues that does not routinely test players for cannabis use or impose strict bans on its consumption—especially after Canada legalized cannabis, making it more widely accepted. Other leagues, such as the NFL and NCAA, have also eased their cannabis policies in recent years, reducing testing requirements and increasing the permissible THC limits.
Sports scientists suggest that many athletes prefer cannabis for pain relief and recovery enhancement. Additionally, several players claim that cannabis helps them focus better and manage stress. Given the physically demanding nature of hockey, many are turning to alternatives that are considered less harmful than traditional painkillers and sleep aids.
This emerging trend within the NHL highlights a broader shift in professional sports, where younger athletes are leaning towards healthier and more balanced lifestyles. Whether this will lead to official changes in NHL policies remains to be seen.
