Even though he hasn’t played for the Florida Panthers in a few years, speedy forward Anthony Duclair is still a favorite among former Cats players.
He has always had a soft spot for South Florida, hosting one of his youth hockey camps in Coral Springs and contributing to the growth of the sport through his foundation.
That’s probably why Panthers fans took to social media this week to speak out when a photo of Duclair sparked an interesting debate.
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In the photo, Duclair’s hair was visible, but it was not attached to his head.
Duclair appeared to cut his hair and shave off his beard prior to New York Islanders training camp after signing a four-year, $14 million contract during the offseason.
The downsizing was the result of a rule imposed by Hockey Ops Chairman and Islanders General Manager Lou Lamoriello, one of many seemingly outdated rules the hockey executive had been putting in place for years.
When Duclair posted the photo, a discussion arose among fans about whether the rules are still fair in this day and age.
Are there any cultural or religious issues to consider?
Does it matter that it is the employer of a private company, the one who signs the paychecks, who demands that certain rules be followed?
It is very different from a dress code. Clothes go on. They are not you.
The personal grooming rule was made famous by the New York Yankees and their former owner George Steinbrenner.
Some argue that Duclair chose to sign with the Islanders and knew what he was getting into.
That is 100% true.
Some of the other #LouRules:
-no facial hair (except during the play-offs)
-no long hair (longer than the collar)
-no jewelry (necklaces/earrings)
-jackets/ties must be worn during matches and on the team bus/plane
-no broadcasters/media allowed on the team charter (including team broadcasters) https://t.co/dkkK6jAw56— Gord Miller 🇺🇦 (@GMillerTSN) January 31, 2023
We don’t know if he turned down any other offers, but the idea of ​​signing a four-year contract, the longest period he has been offered in his career, undoubtedly played a role in his decision to move to the island.
The question is: is it necessary to take this into account?
Why would Duclair have to cut his hair if he doesn’t want to in order to sign the biggest deal of his life?
After all, no one ever said life was fair.
However, those who have the power can indeed make a difference in the world.
Feel free to continue the debate in the comments section.
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