NHL JerseyWatch 2011
Sunday · Jan 16 · 2011 | 11:41 PM PST
January Edition Reebok has released its 2011 planning catalog to retailers across North America so they can decide what merchandise to carry. And, as expected, many are rather eager to share their inside information with those dying to know what changes are coming.
Before I continue, it's important to point out that just because this information comes from Reebok doesn't make it gospel. Nothing is official until the specified team or league says so. For example, last year's early catalog for retailers suggested the Predators would have new home and road uniforms this season. That never happened. All this tells us is what's in the pipeline.
Supposedly, 11 teams are making changes in 2011. Take the following for what it's worth and keep in mind that it's all subject to revision. For each team, I've listed what's changing along with speculation on how said changes might manifest.
Atlanta Thrashers
Thrashers current third jersey / from NHL.comNew alternate jersey Atlanta has arguably the ugliest third jersey of the Reebok era. Despite a look that merges elements from football and basketball uniforms, it gets points for originality in a market where hockey is often overlooked. But they shouldn't forget they still play hockey.
It was a surprise to hear the Thrashers are already looking to replace the alternate sweater as it was only introduced in the 2008-09 season. Makes me think sales are in the tank. So how might they make changes?
I don't want to be the one to say it, but dark blue is probably a good bet. It's the new black in terms of being a popular color for alternate uniforms. And it's certainly not maroon.
Thrashers 1999-2006 / from Getty ImagesWhat's more is the Thrashers don't have a lot of history to draw from, having been founded in 1999. But if they were to take inspiration from the past, let's not forget their original dark jersey (left) was navy.
By the way, anyone recognize the 26-year-old kid in that photo? If you guessed Marc Savard, well done. I'd forgotten he spent a few years in Atlanta before becoming a star in Boston.
Anyway, if the Thrashers' goal is to sell more jerseys, I'd sooner buy this than the weird hybrid they're currently offering. But then truthfully, I'm a Lightning fan so I'd never buy a Thrashers jersey.
But who can say if they're interested in digging up the past? They completely surprised us in 2008 with the jersey they came up with so we may be shocked again in 2011. If it is an original design, I'd count on a major element that highlights the city of Atlanta, be it a new logo or straight-up text.
Regardless, I don't see how they can do worse than their current alternate uniform. And it will be a relief to finally see this one disappear from the NHL.
Buffalo Sabres
Sabres third jersey / from NHL.comSame alternate jersey The Sabres will hang onto the alternate sweater they introduced this season as part of their 40th anniversary celebration.
Though nothing is changing, I thought it worth mentioning here as some thought perhaps the jersey would be worn only this season and then retired. In fact, it seems the royal blue will hang around at least one more year. Possibly longer.
Also, the jersey does feature the throwback Sabres logo with their founding year, 1970, set inside. This was used as the team's 40th anniversary mark but it's not specific to this year, which means it's likely to stay on the sweater.
It goes without saying, but Buffalo's home and road uniforms will also stay the same for 2011-12. Overall, this might be the best set of sweaters in the NHL. And it's all because they're paying attention to their past.
Dallas Stars
Stars current third jersey / from NHL.comNew alternate jersey Reebok says the Stars are looking to launch a brand new third sweater. And most of us are hoping they run far away from their current look.
Dallas may have been the hardest hit by the transition to Reebok Edge in 2007. They went from having a beautiful and unique set of sweaters to some of the blandest in the league. And green almost disappeared entirely.
Currently, the Stars wear a black jersey and a white jersey, each of which simply has the word "DALLAS" arched above the sweater number — not too unlike the Thrashers' current third. They're trimmed in gold and only the white uniform has any hint of green. Their third jersey (right) is the only one with any kind of a logo on the front.
Stars 2003-2006 / from Getty ImagesNow it seems they're finally ready to advance the brand and add something new. (Let's just hope it's not a black version of the present third.) I think we're all anticipating something in green, a color that's slowly but surely returning to the NHL after an absence that went on too long.
Maybe even a new logo to go with the green? So long as they learned their lesson from the "Mooterus" (left). That lesson being, don't get too cute with your logo or it will come back to bite you.
Let's be honest, anyone who's ever opened up a sixth grade health class textbook would recognize that shape without a second look. We can all pretend it's the constellation Taurus, but no one is being fooled here. Not even Trevor Daley.
Not only that, but what's with the red? That's never been in their color scheme. And they don't need it. They already have two great colors in green and gold.
The point is, the Stars don't have a good track record with third jerseys. Keep in mind that the current road jersey was their most recent try at an alternate design. And it was terribly lacking in creativity, obviously. Maybe the next try will put an end to that streak.
Edmonton Oilers
Oilers home jersey / from NHL.comNew road jersey At last, Oilers fans can rejoice! A new white sweater is coming to Edmonton this fall.
If the Stars fared the worst in the switch to Reebok Edge jerseys in 2007, the Oilers weren't far behind. Fans had been without their true blue and orange, instead dealing with navy and copper with red trim since 1996.
In 2007, the colors stayed the same, but the jerseys were a disappointment. As with many new Reebok sweaters, there were no waist stripes. And the sleeve stripes inexplicably stopped on top of the elbow instead of wrapping completely around the arm.
Only a season later, the complaints were quelled with the introduction of a retro third jersey (right) that brought back the brightly-colored blue and orange from the '80s that most hockey fans associate with Gretzky's Cup-winning dynasty.
Oilers 1981-1996 / from Getty ImagesJust one year after that, the fan-favorite uniform got top-billing as the new home sweater. Things have been quiet on the jersey front this season. But now with a new white sweater in the works for 2011, fans should be excited.
Most likely, the new road sweater will be a white version of the current home jersey — a look we haven't seen on a regular basis since it was retired back in '96.
To remind you of what that looked like, I tracked down this shot of Mariusz Czerkawski specifically because you can see that the sleeve stripes wrap completely around the elbow. We have indeed missed that feature.
Many fans were expecting/hoping the white jersey would make its return this season, but after three consecutive seasons of uniform changes in Edmonton, the NHL probably frowned upon the notion of a fourth — even though the Islanders got away with it. And as disappointing as that may be, let's take solace in the fact that it's being rectified next season and not five years from now.
Unfortunately, however, the third jersey will not be changing. So those wanna-be stripes aren't disappearing entirely quite yet.
Now for this final paragraph, I could go off on a tangent about how we don't know anything for sure and they could come out with an entirely new design for the white jersey... but I think we all know the Oil would not dare be that reckless. Or would they?
Florida Panthers
Panthers current home & road jerseys / from NHL.comNew home & road jerseys Reebok says that Florida's piping-happy home and away sweaters are going away at the end of this season. And even a Lightning fan will admit that's a good thing. Because these are terrible.
Over the last season or two, there's been a noticeable shift away from the leaping panther logo to something more simplified — similar to what we're seeing in Nashville. The Cats' new third jersey is a great example of this.
More and more, Panthers marketing materials have featured either the third jersey logo or a paws up version of the leaping cat. It's hard to say for certain what changes are in store for the new sweaters, but there are no plans to change the third jersey at this point.
Panthers 1993-2007 / from Getty ImagesIf the Cats really want to do it right, just look back. Under the heading of you don't know what you have until it's gone, the funny thing is they're one of those teams that got it right the first time.
And even though the red jersey (left) that we'll always associate with John Vanbiesbrouck was relegated to alternate status in 2003, it's too good to disappear forever. Bring it back.
This season the Panthers are holding a few throwback nights. And while we hoped to see them in red again, these events had nothing to do with the jerseys worn on the ice.
Now that the Panthers have a navy blue jersey that actually looks good, they should hang onto it (as a third) and bring the red back. To the Panthers I say, let the Lightning be blue and reclaim your original colors.
Despite all that, however, the new third jersey does show a clear move away from red. The addition of powder blue is great as an alternate color, but I would hope they aren't looking to extract the red from their identity altogether.
Hopefully the hot Florida summer — which I no longer have to contend with (yay!) — will yield some answers. Until then, all we have is speculation.
Los Angeles Kings
Kings current third jersey / from NHL.comNew home, road & alternate jerseys Apparently the Kings intend to toss out everything and go back to the drawing board in 2011. Wow.
Actually, if I'm being honest this complete reboot wasn't entirely unforeseen. The team has been dropping hints over the past year. For example, the players opted to wear the black third jerseys throughout their 2010 playoff run. And the throwback launched this season is very popular among fans.
Not only that, but Icethetics reported in October on photos of possible jersey prototypes seen in Luc Robitaille's office at the Kings' practice facility. They are essentially white versions of the current third jersey (right).
Kings throwback jersey / from Getty ImagesSo if I had to guess, the crown logo along with the black and purple sweaters will disappear. Replacing them will be the LA shield logo along with black and white jerseys. And as for the third, obviously the purple and gold throwback is the front-runner.
And that suspicion just got a little more meat on it last night when the Kings added nameplates to those jerseys. Surnames are a league requirement on uniforms, but they got away without them for opening night against the Canucks as they were celebrating the 40th anniversary of their first meeting — which was at a time when jerseys didn't have nameplates.
So now this is a complete uniform and it looks phenomenal. Fans like it and there's no reason not to keep it around. I wouldn't be at all surprised if that's how things shake out for the Kings next season. Black and white regular unis and very colorful thirds.
Of course I could be totally wrong and they could be in the process of launching an brand new identity altogether. As I've been saying, we'll really just have to wait and see.
Nashville Predators
Predators current third jersey / from NHL.comNew home & road jerseys I'm getting the weirdest sense of déjà vu. I think we were singing this song last year.
Yes, it was the 2010 catalog in which Reebok reported we'd see new home and road uniforms for the Predators. But as we know, that never quite happened. But it appears to still be in the cards.
There's a key difference, however, from last year's report, which indicated the third jersey would be going away. That led us to believe the current third would be the new home sweater and a white version would be added for the road.
"Limited edition" jersey / from Seth WrightThen, just yesterday Icethetics readers were treated to a photo of what that jersey would've actually looked like. It was being auctioned at last night's game as a "limited edition" jersey.
Now, according to Reebok in 2011, the Preds' third jersey isn't going anywhere. That means we're likely to see brand new designs for the forthcoming home and road sweaters.
That's reinforced by the unconfirmed report from commenter Kiltimar in yesterday's post. He claims to have been part of a focus group which got a look at new jersey concepts — neither of which looked like what we see here.
Of course I'm not sure if this means the colors will change. Gold has been a trim color on the Preds' uniforms since their inception in 1998. But it may finally be time for them to let it go.
All that does seem to be clear, though, is that the current home and road uniforms are disappearing by the fall. And I, for one, won't be sorry to see them go.
New York Islanders
Isles current road jersey / from NHL.comNew alternate jersey Reebok is indicating a brand new third jersey for the Islanders — which will probably ruin everything now that they've finally gotten it right.
This season, the Isles debuted their new white sweater (right) to match the blue throwback that's been in use since 2008. We were all relieved and overjoyed to see it.
And that's because the folks on Long Island make bad decisions when it comes to trying new things with the uniform. For this team, retro works and it always has.
Remember the "fishsticks" debacle of the mid-90s? If not, you're lucky. Fans quite literally revolted at the sight of the new sweaters and logo. So much so that the team was forced to bring back the old look not three seasons later.
Islanders 2002-2007 / from Getty ImagesThe only time the Islanders have attempted a non-retro third jersey, it was orange and featured some very bizarre design choices.
The Isles weren't part of the wacky third jersey era of the mid-90s because they were busy making wacky home and road jerseys at the time. This orange sweater (left) was launched in 2002 and if Aaron Asham looks puzzled, imagine the rest of us.
I'm all for trying new things. The orange jersey is cool. I like the blue shoulder yoke and laced collar. But what is with the odd pointy blue and white stripes in the middle? What are they meant to be pointing at exactly?
Honestly, I don't want to know.
Regardless, the only orange sweater the Isles ever wore was a failure. I say that despite its five-season run that lasted until Reebok came along in 2007. Should we, uh, thank them? Well, when you look at what they came up with for New York, the answer is a loud and clear "no!"
I'm not sure what the Islanders have in store for a third jersey in 2011. I'm just worried it's not going to be good what with their terrible track record.
New York Rangers
Rangers current third jersey / from NHL.comSame alternate jersey Like the Sabres, the New York Rangers will hang onto their anniversary sweater for at least another season.
None of the Rangers' three jerseys are changing in any way. But again, like Buffalo, I thought it worth a mention since there was the possibility the sweater would only survive for the 85th anniversary season.
The only difference between what the Rangers are wearing in 2010-11 and what they'll have in 2011-12 is the 85th anniversary shoulder patch. Obviously that will disappear following the end of this season.
Personally, I'm a bit disappointed. I, along with many of you, was hoping the Rangers would one day bring back the Lady Liberty logo and uniform. It lasted 11 years and it's arguably the best alternate jersey in the history of the NHL.
For now, though, it looks like we'll have to continue waiting for that day to come.
Ottawa Senators
Senators current third jersey / from NHL.comNew alternate jersey Earlier I said the Thrashers may have the ugliest third jersey in the NHL. Forgot about the Senators.
Luckily, Reebok says that in 2011 the Sens will debut a brand new alternate sweater. And it can only be an improvement on what they've been wearing since 2008 (right) — which is all over the map.
So what will this new third jersey look like? We've been speculating for quite a while here on Icethetics. It started with a retro-styled concept designed by a fan that appeared in official team materials.
Then just last weekend, Ottawa's farm team in Binghamton wore the same barber-pole throwbacks that the original Senators sported in 1930s.
Senators 2000-2007 / from Getty ImagesEither of those is more likely than the Sens looking back into their own short uniform history. Among Canadians, retro is in.
Prior to the Reebok era, the team's last attempt at a third was what you see Mike Fisher wearing (left). It's probably their best alternate sweater design, and my overall favorite Senators jersey.
Their first third jersey, a red one, eventually became their standard dark sweater, from 1999 until 2007. But since their current home uniform is red, black is most likely for the new uni.
This leaves me convinced that Jacob Barrette's concept is probably on the right track. The O logo has been the club's secondary mark since 2007 and it pays tribute to the original Senators franchise. And as I said, in Canada, retro is in.
Still, while this may be what a lot us want to see, there's no telling what Ottawa will do. No one expected the SENS jersey or its odd design, but it happened.
I guess we can just hope they've learned from their mistakes and we'll see something great in 2011. They have a checkered history, but at least it's not all bad.
Pittsburgh Penguins
Pens' Winter Classic jersey / from NHL.comNew alternate jersey This should be the least surprising news in the entire post. The Pens will have a new third in 2011.
The Penguins first talked about replacing their powder blue third jersey last year. But upon the announcement they'd be participating in another Winter Classic, those plans were shelved.
The last time the Pens added a third jersey, it was borrowed directly from the 2008 Winter Classic. Now three years later, it's all but a given that history will repeat itself.
I'd be very surprised if the new uniform isn't the 2011 Winter Classic sweater (right). Chances are it's the same design they were working on last year when the idea of changing the alternate jersey first came up.
The only difference would be the lack of a Winter Classic shoulder patch. I've altered the image to represent that. It's a nice looking jersey on its own. But I do think it would be better if they used real white instead of the trendy vintage white.
Tampa Bay Lightning
Lightning home & road jerseys / from NHL.comNew home & road jerseys This is my favorite part. According to Reebok, the Lightning will sport brand new home and road uniforms next fall!
This is news to me and while I never thought Tampa Bay's jerseys were perfect, I am surprised to hear they're changing them again after just four seasons. My guess is it has to do with the new management team. So, changes all around in the Sunshine State.
Frankly, I like the Reebok Edge uniforms better than what the Bolts wore previously. The blue is brighter and the stripes aren't quite so boring. If your team name is Lightning, you can really afford to not have bland sweater designs.
Having said that, it's a good time for a change. And I'm sure I'll be first in line to buy the new ones. I'd hope for a blue home jersey but that's probably unrealistic considering the third jersey is blue and it's not going anywhere just yet.
The only thing I expect in the new sweaters is the unique underarm striping that's been part of every Lightning uniform since their inception in 1992.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Leafs current third jersey / from NHL.comNew alternate jersey As rumored, the Maple Leafs will be debuting a new third jersey for the 2011-12 season.
The current third jersey in its Reebok incarnation launched in 2008. Prior to that, the same design was used from 2000 to 2007. It was based on a uniform and logo the Leafs used from 1958 to 1967.
When team management has recently discussed changing the uniform with the media, they've said the plan is to borrow from their own history once again.
Leafs '70s throwbacks / from Getty ImagesA year ago, Toronto paid tribute to the 1970s as the players skated out in replica jerseys for warm-ups. They matched sweaters worn by the team from 1970 until 1992. Rumors suggest the team may look to that era for its next alternate uniform.
They look great and just different enough to distinguish themselves from the recently altered home and road jerseys. Fans always love the retro look so the Leafs would probably be wise to go this route.
Beyond that, there's not much else in the Maple Leafs' jersey history that isn't a little crazy. So unless they go with the '70s throwbacks, they'll have to come up with something completely new. And that doesn't usually work out well for them.
And I'll say it once again. We won't really know anything until next summer, fall at the latest. But the Leafs usually like to make a big deal about jersey unveilings so I'm sure we'll know when it's coming.
That wraps up the inaugural edition of NHL JerseyWatch 2011. More updates to follow.
Reader Comments (98)
A black version of Dallas's 3rd would be just fine, you just have bad taste.
I was dissapointed to see that the Calgary Flames aren't changing their uniforms... I was watching them tonight vs the Habs, and they just look awful. IMO, the worst set of unis of the entire NHL, with Atlanta a close second.
It's about time Atlanta got rid of those jerseys, there's no excuse for a jersey that color, but I still doubt their new ones will be anything worth shooting about, I've never been a fan of any of their jerseys.
I really hope Dallas goes the green direction, Minnesota is the only other team with a green jersey and I think they look great so it would be nice to see the stars go back to something similar to what they wore when Hull and Belfour were there
I rather like the silver and black kings unis and it's actually a combo that's not really around in the NHL so I wouldn't mind them going there full time, but I agree that the logo could be a bit more creative
Nashville will look significantly better if they simplify their unis
It would be cool to see the islanders try the orange again, I really like the old orange ones other than the pointy blue stripes, so if they can redesign that one a little I'd be all for it.
Not a fan of what Ottawa has right now so a change will be nice.
I personally think the pens winter classic jerseys were awful and I would hate to see them on the ice again, too bad for me I guess.
I still wish the coyote would redo theirs but doesn't look like that's happening
CCM jerseys were junk, just like the Oilers junk retros.
I definately think the Stars need to go Green in their next jersey...
I love the retro leaf and wish they'd use that full time over the one they have now... that horrible leaf is just BORING...
Now for the Kings... I absolutely hate the LA shield logo... It looks like they just said, "Hey, lets put a picture of Home Plate right on the front of our jerseys"... but it's hockey not baseball... I do like their colors either way they go though with the Black/Silver or Purple/Black...
I hate the new pens 3rd jersey, stick with the skating pen and regular penguin!
I wonder if changing the Leafs' third has something to do with the Leafs' 95th anniversary next year. Teams like the Nucks and Sabres and Rangers have a penchant of celebrating odd anniversaries (40th and 85th) after all...
Wow, I am impressed with this gold mine of info, were to begin:
Atlanta - Finally, ditch that aesthetic atrocity. While were at it, a white version of your cobalt jerseys, with the tail striping please.
Buffalo - Well, it's good to see that they've finally discovered the Chicago Blackhawk formula of uniform design. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Dallas - I actually really like the Dallas jerseys, and they rank in my top 10 in the league, and they'd be higher with some tail striping. I see no problem with a third, and if it's green, bonus.
Edmonton - It's about time
Florida - When I looked at all the RBK retrofit back in 2007, I chose a jersey for all 30 teams. Florida was the only team where I wanted option c. None of the above. They can only go up (I hope)
Los Angeles - This is interesting. If they do make a white version of their alternate, I'll want it, especially based on the prototype that was posted in October. I've ordered their current black, but that will be canceled first thing tomorrow.
Nashville - Good to see they're consistent. Still have no idea how to design a white jersey.
NY Islanders - I seem to remember a promise that the owners made to the fans with the death of the Fisherman jerseys "No more ugly jerseys". This time, would it kill you to keep it.
Ottawa - A barberpole alternate is just what the league needs. They could also use a change from their current duds, which rank in my bottom 5.
Pittsburgh - Change your home and away, not the third.
Tampa Bay - Finally. Will we finally see a silver away jersey? Probably not, but anything is an upgrade over what they're currently wearing.
Toronto - As a shock and surprise to absolutely no one, they're changing their alternate jerseys. Just don't screw it up.
Those are my viewpoints on the proposed, and rumored changes for JerseyWatch 2011. Keep up the hunt Chris.
@Readbetweenthelines... "Forum blue" is the name for the Kings' original purple color. I don't really know the story behind it though. (Obviously it isn't really blue.)
@Tim M... I totally agree with you. For example, I thought the Islanders' jerseys were hideous back in the '80s, and I still think they're hideous. But I think you're way off in your criticism of Chris. Not only is he not obsessed with retro (as a lot of hockey fans are), in the past he's made almost exactly the same argument as what you said in your comment - that a jersey should be judged on its own design merits, not on some idea of "tradition" and "the good old days".
Pihlbaoge: i do agree that the logo on that black and silver jersey is terrible, but i think the basis of the uniform is great. switch that logo with the crown thats on the home and roads, and make that purple and gold the road, because the purple and gold jersey might be the best jersey in the nhl.
I have a major disagreement with this.. It is totally bland and plain to have the kings sport the same colors the lakers do, It is boring and dumb ( I know it was their original color scheme but that was because if I recall right the owner of the lakers owned the kings as well back in the day) And when I see the old yellow/purple kings jersey It can't be the "best in the NHL because it was a NBA color scheme of a dominant team so when i see purp/yellow I think NBA not NHL. This almost falls into the next point @ 91pens92 The penguins original color scheme was totally void of yellow yet they are from pittsburg, the reason they took on the yellow/ black was because the owner thought since the steelers won the SB that year it would maybe bring them luck (again if I recall what I read about the team history correctly) And you know what thats fine whatevers even though blue makes more sense (i never seen yellow water or ice and don't associate the color yellow with precipitation unless its pee'd on snow lol ) but to say they are the "COLOR of Pittsburg" is kind of retarded. I have been to pittsburg many times and there is no land marks or famous places non sports related or that made the city famous because of two spectrums/colors. Seriously google earth pittsburg, its not like some stand out place on the globe where all buildings are either yellow or black as if its a religious event happened in those specific colors there. ( Also as much as I hate teams sporting RW&B if it ain't the USA in the olympics the bills do, but then the sabres are a totally different color scheme which is cool as hell, not to mention the bandits a third totally different color scheme from the same town)
Ps you guys think the NHL edge was a fiasco Look up on the tube how Nike is taking over NFL jersey's next year and changing them dramatically along with the helmets. There is video's of NIKE denied leaks of the concepts but i dunno plus other concepts, some actually look good, way different but good and its not total bs because there is also vids of college teams that sported the new NIKE "combat" uniform system this yea rwhere they show off the up close details. If the NFL uni's change to this comabt system all NFL teams are prolly deep in the process of a total redesign of their uni's and logo/helmets. Chris should consider covering that too.
youtube New NFL concept uniforms 2012 or paste this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvqt5af5hFQ in the tube's to see one set, side bar stuff has fan one's as well as the boise state live demo one's i believe if not dig you'll find it if you didn't all ready know this
I like the Pens New Winter Classics. They look great, imo. Ive liked all of the Kings jerseys over the years but would love to see the Black and Silver jerseys come back. Black, Silver and White just look so good together and no other team uses those combinations, so LA should take advantage of that. Would be nice too see the Oilers and the Flames for that matter come up with a new Third logo
@ ReadBetweenTheLines
True the Pens did switch from Blue/White to Blk/Yellow Gold due to the Steelers an Pirates in 1980 BUT if you want to get technical about it, the Pittsburgh Pirates Hockey Club (Circa 1924-1930) were the VERY FIRST professional sports team in Pittsburgh to wear Blk/Yellow Gold. The Pirates(MLB) wore Red/White/Blue back then and dem Stillers weren't born until 1933. The Boston Bruins protested the Pens color change BUT LOST due to the fact that the Pirates Hockey Club wore Blk/Yellow Gold and for the record the Bruins wore Brown/Yellow in that same time frame.
The City of Pittsburgh(spelt with an H at the end, PITTSBURGH not Pittsburg) Flag
Highly unlikely... but just one more time... just once...
I want to see the circa 1994 black and gold Canucks jersey back on the ice. One game. One isn't asking too much is it?!?!
"Forum blue" is the name for the Kings' original purple color. I don't really know the story behind it though.
Jack Kent Cooke loved the color purple, but hated the word "purple." So he coined the "Forum Blue" name to get around it. When Jerry Buss bought the Lakers from Cooke, he began calling it "Royal Purple" and then just "purple."
I was hoping to see my beloved Canucks were dropping the orca. It worked with the old navy and maroon colour scheme, but not with the vintage blue and green. I also heard from a guy who works at a sports merch store that this would be the last year for the current home and away, but... I guess we'll have to wait and see.
As for the Pens, they should go with a yellow and black jersey, circa 1985. I love that sweater, and yellow has really gotten the shaft of late.
Not that I care about the Oilers jerseys or anything, but I love the blue and orange. I was glad to see they finally started to ditch the navy and copper mess they had going there. That also goes for the Islanders, on second thought. Navy and orange? No thank you.
Sabres: New owner soon..thus new point person for all decisions. Maybe/Hopefully they lose the grey piping..or better yet go back to the original home and away of the 1970's..That is when Mr. Pegula (new owner) was a Sabres season ticket holder..
Oh god, I can't wait for this white Oilers jersey!
Blue laces on the Pred jersey and call it a day.
Thrashers need to use the original Atlanta Flames logo and find a way to incorporate it into their new alternate jersey.
Okay...am I the ONLY one that LOVES the Oilers' midnight blue/copper jerseys? They're terrific AND futuristic.
Personally, this whole "dynasty throwback" jersey idea is nothing short of insulting to the Dynasty Era -
today's Oilers don't DESERVE to wear such sweaters. Which, by the way, should just be put to rest with
the times where we actually HAD such talent on the team.
I liked the cooper and blue but I defiantly don't like the current version. I am a fan of the dynasty colours too and I wouldn't mind seeing either of those colours when their done right.
I liked the purple and gold of the Kings because when I see the silver and black it reminds me of the 90's when everybody and their dog was wearing Raider/King colours. The other thing about the purple is nobody uses it as a primary colour which I wouldn't mind seeing in the NHL.
Atlanta - not a real surprise to see these ones go. Its too bad they aren't scrapping the home jerseys too.
Boston - would have loved to see the winter classic jerseys adopted as the third, great colours and overall classy jersey
Florida - i'm kinda of sad to see the leaping panther die out (i think that its a great logo), the simplified design looks just like a bad knock off of Pittsburgh third. Baby blue does not suit the panthers and shouldnt be adopted full time
Dallas - It's nice to see that they're making a change, I wouldn't have minded one with the text but they should have jerseys with a logo on it. It would be interesting to see them make a gold jersey (like the one that they scraped at the last second).
Edmonton- It's great that they're dumping the disaster that they currently have and replacing them with retros. However I would love to see the return of the navy third (flying oil drop) which i think was one of the best thirds prior to the lockout
La - The black shield jerseys have grown on me and now I actually quite like them. I find them unique and different than most other hockey jerseys. I think that this combined with the yellow and purple would make for a great set.
Nashville - there new jerseys will obviously be a huge upgrade to what they are currently wearing. however they look like a lot of other jerseys and I wish that they had scrapped the entire logo.
Islanders - I would love to see another attempt at orange, providing a unique and different jersey colour to the nhl.
Rangers - Would have liked to see Lady Liberty back but the retros nice too
Its unfortunate that Colorado, Calgary and Vancouver aren't changing their current jerseys. It would have been nice to see a green canuck jersey possibly with Johnny Canuck. Calgary and Colorado both needed to fix the piping. Lastly all of Pittsburgh's jerseys have a nice look and it's better that they stick with what they have than mess up something that is working. Also the Leafs have so many options to choose from that they'll have a interesting throwback.
Anybody who thinks the Kings need to ditch the purple and gold needs to have their head examined. That's the nicest jersey going in the league right now. Simple, colorful and classic. I don't understand why everyone so conveniently forgets that the Kings actually had a hockey team before Gretzky showed up. Ever hear of Rogie Vachon? Butch Goring? Bob Nevin? Marcel Dionne? Dave Taylor? Charlie Simmer? Mario Lessard? Or hey...how about the Miracle on Manchester man himself, Daryl Evans?? All of those players donned the purple and gold. The Kings ARE purple and gold. Not silver and black. I have faith that Mr. Lombardi, Mr. Robitaille and Co. will make the right decision.
Thank god the Ottawa Senators are coming up with a new third I hate the SENS jersey worst choice ever just like the BOLTS alternate why put nicknames on the jerseys when you can come up with something better. I am a Senator fan and I hope they put the either the same logo on black jerseys or the second logo which never gets used except on the pants in the NHL video games either way thank you Melnyk but, plz dont put another shit jersey on the ice.
I was hoping the Sharks would get something new for next year.. Hopefully the season after next then
@Rycoke... My sentiments exactly about the current team wearing the vintage sweaters. Totally agree!
rycoke & daniel, well thats 2 fans of the rbk stuff, no accounting for taste i guess......
I actually prefer the current Oilers jerseys. The main reason people want to bring back the retro jerseys is the hope that the jerseys will bring back another cup to Edmonton. The truth is, the Oilers aren't winning any cup any time soon with bums like Strudwick, Stortini, Jaques, Gilbert, and Foster out there.. no matter what jerseys they are wearing. So if youre going to suck, at least look modern in doing so, stick with the Navy Blue and Copper and demote the Retro jersey to Alternate.
as bad as the islanders 3rd jersey was, it sold pretty well
OTTAWA should throw the old 2D logo or the new 2D logo on a 3rd jersey.
Ottawa's 3D & future-istic logos need to cease. I really hope that go with something from their modern past, not 1930's past with the BIG O.
Although it is extremely unlikely that this will happen I would really like to see a brand new third jersey for the Leafs. I am a Leafs fan and although I enjoy the retro style uniforms it would be cool if for once we had a completely new design.
i was hoping for the capitals to wear the WC jersey as an alternate!
@ SW...I TOTALLY agree with your sentiments about the Kings' purple and gold. Any hockey team can wear black, but not any hockey team can wear the simple and unique combo of purple and gold like the Kings. I was at the Canucks' home opener against LA and those purple and gold uniforms were absolutely beautiful. Also too, purple and gold are the Kings' original colours but not the Lakers' orginal colours. The basketball team had double blue and white when they moved from Minnesota. Also too, the Minnesota Vikings have worn purple and gold for decades.
@ Heinz and Adam....I agree wholeheartedly. It's time to get rid of the orca. The name of Vancouver's team is CANUCKS, not ORCAS. My choice for a primary is the full-body Johnny Canuck logo on navy blue with lots of green. However, I would be just as happy to see the current 3rd with the Stick 'n Rink be promoted to full-time. I would also like to see the Canucks go back to the classic block numerals with added green accents.
There's nothing wrong with the Thrashers' or Sens' third jersey. Thrashers is one of the best and most unique in the league, and Sens is powerful looking. I don't get what the problem is with either. Same with the Islanders. I loved the Fisherman jersey, along with the other jersey where they reverted to the original logo while keeping the navy, light blue, and orange color scheme, and I definitely loved the first RBK Edge jerseys they had, with the Orange-Blue-Orange sleeves. Very original, unique, and they looked good. Isle's fans don't know how to appreciate good jerseys, just like they don't know how to appreciate hockey in their city. Also, red for the Panthers? Those jerseys were way too bright, and down-right hideous. It'd be a huge mistake if they went back to those. Just like LA going back to purple and gold. They just want to feed off the Lakers' popularity. I live in LA, and most of the Kings fans I know agree that the purple and gold jerseys are terrible. Please don't go back to those. I love the current third and concepts for the white version. I'd be happy if they went that way. Finally, I'd prefer if the Oilers didn't go vintage with their look (I hate the Vintage look for anything. We aren't in that time anymore, bring something new to the table!) but I understand if they do it. Huge money grab for them.
Hey Chris
Great article. Like how you included not only pictures of the jerseys that are changing/staying the same but also ones from each teams past. Just wondering though, how do you know for sure that the Oilers will be keeping the Navy Half Stripe jersey as a third? When all this info initially leaked on CCSLC, the guy made no mention of a third jersey.
Thanks in advance and keep up the great work!
@Franco
Wow, I love how you list Toronto as a team that changes its jerseys purely for a money grab. Toronto has had the the same colours and relatively same design (70s and 80s was different) for their whole existence. They have had that third jersey for over 10 years and are changing it because they want a colour one like very other team. If you want to talk about teams changing for a money grab, look at Vancouver. They've gone through more colour schemes than every other team combined. Toronto just changed their home and road in 2007 along with rbk edge, and only changed it recently because FANS were complaining. If anything Toronto, along with Detroit, Chicago and New Jersey, are the only teams that do the COMPLETE OPPOSITE of a money grab.
Great post. A few thoughts on some of the teams listed in this update:
Atlanta: The Thrashers need to return to a dark blue home jersey as they had originally. Their current powder blues should become their thirds, albeit with a number of changes.
Dallas: Absolutely terrible transition to the RBK Edge sweaters in 2007. Their pre-2007 uniforms should be brought back, with green as the home colour and the inverted white as the away. A black version of the green home sweater would look great.
Edmonton: Good call on the retro white jersey for the away uniform. The current navy blue third should be altered to its pre-RBK Edge design.
Florida: Their old reds should be brought back. Perhaps incorporate the current 3rd jersey design, but leave the original cat logo on the front and make the jersey red.
LA: I personally don't like the current third jerseys. The whole 'LA' on the front and the lack of waist stripes makes for a very bland jersey. The Kings should revert back to their original crown, and original purple and gold colour scheme. It's their original colours, and the colours of the Lakers. Perhaps going back to those colours would bring them some playoff glory.
NYR: Their new thirds are spectacular. I've always wondered if the Rangers would look good in a RED third jersey. Basically a red version of their current home jerseys, and give them blue pants. The Texas Rangers did this a few years back and their jerseys look great.
Pittsburgh: The Pens need a re-haul of their current home and aways. Far too bland and a lack of waist stripes is bothersome.
TB: The Lightning should take their current 3rd jerseys, make them black and make them their homes. BOLTS should be replaced with the Lightning logo, and the shoulder patches replaced with the Florida logo. An inverted white version should become their away jerseys. The blue jerseys should remain their thirds, minus the BOLTS script as well.
There is no place for black in the Islanders jersey!!! They can do so much more. The only other thought is that they will create something that is not so regional to market the team if they relocate. I hope they don't relocate, its just that the Town of Hempstead and Nassau County are run by a bunch of fools who do not know how fortunate they are to have a professional team.
I really wish Atlanta would bring back the pictured jersey w/ Savard in it as the alternate. I think that the home jerseys arms sort of define the Thrashers and i like our uniqueness. Since our inception we havent had matching jerseys and i love it! I have all the jerseys except the new powder blue. I also miss the design at the bottom.
Cool. I'll definitely be keeping an eye on this, especially the four teams who are getting total overhauls (Los Angeles, Nashville, Tampa, Florida).
I have some VERY BAD news for the majority of Canuck fans, including myself, who have want the orca logo gone. It is not going anywhere. Yesterday, the Canucks had a Vancouver Board and Trade meeting at Rogers Arena in which owner Francesco Aquilini, President and GM Mike Gillis, Vice President Victor DeBonis, assistant to the GM, Stan Smyl, and Head Coach Alain Vignault were in attendance to answer questions.
When Aquilini was asked about the possibility of changing the logo, this is what he said:
Aquilini was asked about the process of changing the team's logo and what the significance was of acquiring the rights to the Vancouver Millionaires' logo.
Aquilini: "People identify with a brand and a logo and a name. We as a family like the whale. It reminds us of the west coast, indigenous people. We really like that people, especially the younger generation, identify with it. We also like the hockey stick (logo), it reminds us of when the team came into the league and that nostalgic feeling. Between the stick and the whale is where we want to be."
Now, even though I have heard rumours about this being the last year of the orca logo, I am going to take Aquilini at his word. This is an owner who wants to cater to the extreme left-wing and politically correct that plague Vancouver. Going back to the franchise's roots by making the Stick 'n Rink the primary with Johnny Canuck as a third or vice-versa is not even an option. The current primary Canuck jersey is a complete joke. Even by keeping the orca, there is not a single stitch of green in the logo. The "Vancouver" wordmark makes the jersey look terribly cluttered and the lack of tradtional block-style numerals makes the look very bushleague.
While the Aquilini family have done some very good things with the Canucks, but keeping a brand that caters to the politically correct and not to longtime Canuck tradition and history is just plain stupid and wrong. Why not call them the Vancouver Orcas? Not!! The Canucks name and brand have very strong hockey roots that go back to 1945. It looks like the Canucks' identity crisis continues, with no thanks to Francesco Aquilini, who has lost my respect.
@ Jack
No, the reason why people want the old Oilers jerseys back is because those half stripe, bettman piped jerseys are an abomnination.
@ Andre
The Canucks current jerseys are spectacular. Wordmark or not. No reason to change them.
@ Morgo
Simple is more. A proper wordmark is what the Rangers have. Either have a wordmark or a crest, not both. As for the logo, the orca has to go, period. Why confuse hockey fans throughout the world by making them think that a "Canuck" is a whale? It's got absolutely nothing to do with the Canucks' name and history. The current third jersey is spectacular, minus the weak font for the numerals. Johnny Canuck should also be more prominant in the Canucks' identity, either on the primary sweater or on a third with the current third being promoted to full-time. Afterall, JC is who the Canucks are named after.
Teams like the Canadiens, Leafs, Red Wings, Flyers, Islanders, and Sabres have looks that are simple and crests that define the team name.
@Andre & morgo
yeah just think of how many people still to this day think a capital is an eagle
I don't get what everyone likes the stick and rink logo for, it's a terrible logo that could easily be for any hockey team and that anyone in the world could've designed. The orca is much more creative and it keeps in touch with the history of the area. They'd be better off using the old orange skate logo than the stick and rink if you ask me
@ Harrison,
The reason most people like the Stick 'n Rink, including myself is that it is not only the Canucks' original crest, it is simple and defines the game of hockey while incorporating the 'C' for Canucks and the blue and green for Vancouver and BC. It is no different in creativity than the classic Canadiens' CH or the Bruins' spoked 'B'. I do agree with you regarding the Speeding Skate, which reflected the speed of hockey, while incorporating the team's name.
As for the orca, it is irrelevent to the Canucks' name. Furthermore, the design doesn't even come close to the true Native Haida art that reflect the region's history. It was designed by a young Caucasian Canadian for the former Orca Bay ownership that wanted to put it's corporate stamp on the Canucks' brand. A Native artist, who is far more familiar with Native art, would have done a much better job in designing a Haida-inspired orca logo.
If you don't want a simplistic logo like the Stick, then go with Johnny Canuck. That is the logo that inspired the team's name, going back to 1945. Also, Vancouver and BC were built on the lumber industry, which explain Johnny's occupation. In all due respect to the Stick logo, Johnny Canuck should have been the team's NHL crest from Day 1.
Regarding the Washington Capitals, most people know that the bald eagle is the official emblem of the U.S. and it suits a team called the "Capitals", playing in the U.S. capital city. The W-eagle logo also incorporates the Capitol building's dome beneath it's body.
I hope this information helps. Cheers.
Regarding above comment of the old school Oilers jersey being overrated, that without the history of the team they would have been forgotten? They're classic hockey style that suit the equally classic and well preserved logo. I'll admit the orange can be a tad obnoxious for modern times, Always figured the white with blue shoulders would return first. Im one of the few that like the current 3rd. Half stripes don't bother me. I think they're modest.
You referred to the Vancouver V as well... I say bring back the black, orange, and red skate! Those were ugly in just the right way. There is too much bright blue there these days. Leafs fans are feeling too welcome!
Calgary has always been ugly and always will. Forever stuck with the McDonalds motif, I feel sorry for them.
Ottowa-Gag! Figure it the F*** out! You look great in black.
LA-keep the black and purple, scrap the art! Less is more. See also; Flyers, Devils, Blues, Wings, Bruins.
The new Ducks 3rd is probably the best they will ever have but they're still the Mighty Ducks and so they will always be G**!
I wish the Hurricanes, Avs, and Coyotes could play in Whalers, Nordiques, and Jets outfits. Honor thy fallen comrades!!!
I loved the Islanders Orange jersey as most Islander fans did. The popularity of these jerseys was off the chart and if you went to a game most people wearing a jersey had the orange. Its been gone for a few years now but the fans still show up with this jersey! So I'm not sure where you are coming from by saying it was a poor choice or not popular.
The only thing the Islanders need to do is add a blue border around the crest on the road white. They could also take the retro look to the next level and get the striping on the arms and socks correct. A cup era blue with the original three stripes on the stick would be a cool alternate