It’s a laid back week here at Beginner’s Puck. Erika’s beloved Oilers have been on hiatus and things have been a little wild in Philadelphia. Seems there are sports other than hockey happening in this town. Still, we soldier on, talking about sports superstitions, problematic faves, concussions and celebrations - both formal and informal.

And we bring back #OldHockey with special guest Steven Schapansky of Hockey Feels podcast! Steven gives us the background on Willy O’Ree who, 60 years ago last week, became the first black player in the NHL. We talk about diversity, what the NHL is doing right and what it is doing spectacularly wrong. (We’re looking at you Kid Rock.)

Finally, this week’s hockey tidbit sends us off with a heartwarming story of 15 y.o. Make-A-Wish recipient Hayden Bradley who signed a three-day contract with the San Jose Sharks. Sometimes hockey is pretty awesome.

Want to add to our “Hockey Is For Everyone…sort of” conversation? Drop us an email or tweet and let us know what you think!

~D

Twitter: @BeginnersPuck

Erika Ensign and Deborah Stanish with Steven Schapansky

Philadelphia honors Eric Lindros (For Athletic subscribers because PAYWALL)

#OldHockey

Willy O’Ree celebrates 60th anniversary of first NHL game

Hockey Tidbit

San Jose Sharks make wish come true