Controversy Over Stanley Cup Engravings
NHL fans are expressing their excitement, but also discontent, regarding Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon. It’s not just that he got his family’s name on Lord Stanley’s Cup, but the fact that he listed them at the very top.
The Cup allows for up to 55 names, which includes Dundon himself, his wife Verushka, and their five children: Kayden, Dax, Drew, Blake, and Teigan.
Some fans are concerned that these seven names could occupy spots that might otherwise go to other significant contributors within the organization.
What’s particularly frustrating for some is that these family members may not hold any official roles in the organization.
In the past, the Ilitch family had nine members recognized after their participation in Stanley Cup victories with the Detroit Red Wings during 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008, all while serving as part owners or team vice presidents.
Last season, the Florida Panthers had a similar situation, as the Viola family added five names to the Cup, all of whom had official roles, such as Acting Governor.
Unfortunately, the Hurricanes don’t quite meet those criteria for family additions, and fans aren’t too pleased about the engravings.
A Hurricanes spokesperson stated, “The organization has no intention of commenting.”
The detailed eligibility process on the NHL official website describes what’s required for names to be engraved, but there’s a noticeable lack of clarity.
According to the rules, a player must participate in at least 41 regular season games or one game in the Stanley Cup Final to qualify for engraving. There’s a provision from 1994 that allows teams to petition for a player’s name if circumstances prevent them from playing. However, administrative name approvals fall to the teams, requiring approval from the Hockey Hall of Fame and the NHL.
The Hockey Hall of Fame provided insight, saying that “Hockey Operations at the league’s office in Toronto approves the names for the Stanley Cup.” They clarified that the HHOF isn’t involved in this particular process.
This response has baffled many fans, especially given the official league rules, and frustration remains high.
The Hurricanes clinched the championship title against the Golden Knights in six games.
One critic vented, “Stupid Tom Dundon has wasted a lot of space on the Stanley Cup by adding useless kids to it—kids who contributed nothing to the success of that team. How selfish. Shameful.”
