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Blackhawks' Spencer Knight's luggage flagged by US Customs for a very unexpected item during team trip


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Sam Walker
December 2, 2025  (9:11 PM)
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You never expect airport security to flag NHL gear, but Spencer Knight turned heads during a recent team flight when U.S. customs officials flagged a red-light therapy mat in his luggage.

The 24-year-old goaltender of the Chicago Blackhawks tried to explain the gadget boosts recovery and tissue repair, but the official apparently remained unconvinced.
Knight's teammates still chuckle about the moment weeks later.
Star forward Connor Bedard called it «funny,» during an interview with the Chicago Sun-Times, then added that seeing Knight's dedication off-ice routines, wellness gear, and all-just deepens the respect in the locker room.
«Stuff like that is funny, but it's awesome to see [his routine],» Bedard said. «When guys are playing so well, you appreciate that. But when you see, behind the scenes, why they're playing so well - their approach every day - it just makes you have so much respect.»

- Forward Connor Bedard

The incident comes amid what might be Knight's breakout 2025-26 season.
His save percentage sits right around .920, and his Goals Saved Above Average is among the top three in the NHL.

Knight's off-ice routine draws locker-room praise

Behind the mat fiasco lies a disciplined off-ice routine.
Knight reportedly prioritizes nightly sleep even after late flights with an eye mask in place instead of diving into social media or distractions.
«It's crazy, but I've got to respect that. You'll ask him why, and he's like, 'What else am I supposed to do?' Instead of maybe going on social media or watching a movie, he'll just sleep.»

- Defenseman Louis Crevier

For Knight, recovery isn't optional. Teammate Frank Nazar admitted he doesn't always follow the logic but sees the payoff: better focus, a healthier body, and a steadier presence in the net.
«Every year I try new things - one or two new things - to see if I like them,» Knight said. «I consider that almost re-investing in myself. I've been trying this for the past couple years, and I like it. It almost gives a little energy. It's something I've been trying out, and I like the way I feel - not instantly after, but three to four hours after I do it. The one thing I've realized: It's not always [about] trying to be healthier and trying to always add, add, add,» Knight said. «Sometimes you have to subtract. That's important, too.»

- Goaltender Spencer Knight

That balance of quirky habits and serious pro-level performance says a lot about Knight's mindset. The mat might've raised eyebrows at Customs, but his .918-.920 save percentage and confident play make it hard to question whether it's working.
Chicago Sun-Times
Whatever else happens this season, Knight's off-ice rituals are no longer just locker-room anecdotes. They're part of what defines a young netminder carving his identity in Chicago.
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Blackhawks' Spencer Knight's luggage flagged by US Customs for a very unexpected item during team trip

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