The Stanley Pup Event
The National Hockey League is hosting a delightful event dubbed the “Stanley Pup,” which showcases adorable adoptable rescue dogs and is set to broadcast in both the U.S. and Canada on Monday. This heartwarming competition will feature many dogs that are available for adoption in collaboration with the Brandywine Valley SPCA.
Celebrity Appearances
In its third iteration, the event will see appearances from a host of celebrity dog aficionados, some of whom are also hockey fans. Famous figures like Kenan Thompson, Jean Smart, Michael Strahan, Brooke Shields, and Flavor Flav will grace the occasion, alongside NHL players who were inspirational in naming the participating pups.
Dog-Themed Puns
A unique aspect of the “Stanley Pup” is the playful use of dog-themed puns derived from the names of NHL players. Each of the 32 names creatively incorporates elements related to dogs, presented in a humorous manner. Although we won’t be grading the dogs themselves—an act that seems unnecessary and odd—we will evaluate the canine-inspired player names. Enjoy our curated ranking of this entertaining list!
Ranking the Names
In the last spot is Cale Macollar from the Colorado Avalanche, whose name’s punning leaves something to be desired. Next, Jordan Bone-ington of the St. Louis Blues follows, as we sift through numerous bone-related names. Chicago Blackhawks’ Ryan Dognato and Anaheim Ducks’ Cutter Go-fetch-ier come next, with the latter perhaps trying a bit too hard.
Linus Ullbark of the Ottawa Senators and Nate Schtick from the Utah Mammoth also appear, before Adam Howley of the Winnipeg Jets rounds out the lower ranks. Owen Nip-It brings a clever twist on Philadelphia Flyers’ Owen Tippett, while Owen Bowower humorously refers to Owen Power of the Buffalo Sabres.
Next, we feature Devin Collie from the Calgary Flames, perfectly playing off Devin Cooley’s name, while Kris Lefang from the Pittsburgh Penguins adds a playful French twist. Max Dogi brings a low-key charm as a pun on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ Max Domi.
The New York Rangers’ Gabe Pawreault and the Los Angeles Kings’ Artemi Pawnarin continue the theme with delightful uses of “Paw.” Edmonton Oilers’ Evan Boucharf also shines, followed by Brad Marchound of the Florida Panthers, aptly named for his relentless style of play.
Cole Pawfield from the Montreal Canadiens and Jaden Snorts of the Seattle Kraken add whimsy. Jonathan Muttchessault, a Nashville Predators player, earns mention as we ponder what could have been with Jonathan Marchess-snout.
Charlotte’s Charlie Attaboy charms with his name, while Seth Arfis has some room for improvement. Patrick Kanine from the Detroit Red Wings secured a solid entry, and the tie between Jack Chews and Quinn Chews reflects a charming competition.
Jack Eichhowl offers an ideal pun for Vegas Golden Knights’ Jack Eichel, with Bone Jenner ensuring the laughs continue for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Logan Chompson adds fun as Washington Capitals’ goalie, and Matthew Schaefurry from the New York Islanders brings irresistible cuteness.
The top rankings go to Macklin Celeweenie from the San Jose Sharks for sheer audacity, Jason Slobbertson from the Dallas Stars for its comedic value, and Anthony Grrrelli celebrating creativity from the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Anthony Cirelli. However, the crown for the best name this year belongs to Zeev Boop-Em from the Vancouver Canucks, whose name ingeniously nods to a delightful gesture synonymous with dog affection, sealing the charm of the Stanley Pup event this year.
