According to ESPN, NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh has made increasing player visibility a central aim since taking the post in 2023, arguing that growing the sport requires making athletes more visible as ambassadors for hockey.
Recently retired 17-year veteran Kyle Okposo has joined that effort, spending time with the league’s youngest players and urging them to focus on their work on the ice while also showing who they are off it, ESPN reported.
The philosophy was on display at the NHLPA Rookie Showcase in Chicago, where prospects were not only preparing to play in the NHL but also learning to present their personalities. ESPN asked a group of top rookies what they would want a first-time spectator to say after a game. Responses ranged from Trey Augustine of the Detroit Red Wings (No. 41, 2023) hoping to be seen as composed, to Carter Bear (Detroit, No. 13, 2025) wanting observers to notice his passion for the game.
Other players highlighted different strengths: Justin Carbonneau (St. Louis Blues, No. 19, 2025) emphasized effort and willingness to block shots and finish checks; Trevor Connelly (Vegas Golden Knights, No. 19, 2024) said he wants to be viewed as a fast, fun and smart player who elevates teammates; Andrew Cristall (Washington Capitals, No. 40, 2023) wants fans surprised by his playmaking and reads; Cole Eiserman (New York Islanders, No. 20, 2024) stressed his passion for every moment. ESPN noted that Toronto’s Gavin McKenna (No. 1, 2026) drew a simple expectation: that observers will recognize him as a future player.
On a lighter note, ESPN reported rookies also shared the things teammates routinely tease them about: Carter Bear and Charlie Cerrato (Carolina Hurricanes, No. 49, 2025) about loud voices, Justin Carbonneau for being vocal, Cole Eiserman for singing in cars and the locker room, and Quentin Musty (San Jose Sharks, No. 23, 2023) for having a surname that invites rhymes with hockey culture. These moments were part of the showcase’s emphasis on letting players show more of who they are off the ice.
