Chicago Hockey Insider has no direct affiliation to the Chicago Blackhawks, NHL or NHLPA

NHL sends warning: helmets mandatory for warmups amid recent rule violations


PUBLICATION
Sam Walker
December 2, 2025  (5:42 PM)
SHARE THIS STORY

Heads up across the league: the NHL has issued a fresh reminder that players must wear helmets during pre-game warmups, citing recent lapses by teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and others.

The directive points back to Rule 9.6 in the official rulebook, reminding clubs of their responsibility.
The memo, delivered by Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly via a call with ESPN's Greg Wyshynski, underlines that any player who entered the NHL in 2019-20 or later must don a helmet during warmups. Veterans who joined before then remain grandfathered in and still have the option to skate helmet-free.
Historically the «no-bucket warmup» offered a moment of flair, often for rookies relishing their first skate. It tied into tradition, a bit of swagger, and sometimes even superstition.
A big example: when rookie forward Connor Bedard skated out without a helmet before his NHL debut, it drew wide attention-and eventually a fine.
The reminder signals that the league is done with leniency. Teams have reportedly tried to sidestep the helmet rule.

NHL helmet rule returns to spotlight

Fans who grew fond of the flowing hair and tradition might not be thrilled, but the rulebook is clear.
For younger players, getting lidless simply isn't an option any more. Teams that flout this could face fines or further discipline. The change reflects a push to keep safety front and center in warmups as much as during game action.
If fans are not pleased with this, just wait until they find out about the the NHL's deputy commissioner's statement on the likelihood of the upcoming Olympics being canceled that was released moments ago.
For now, the «wire-flow» aesthetic might fade from pre-game rituals, leaving behind helmets, straps, and a reminder that even warmups carry real risk.
POLL
DECEMBRE 2   |   157 ANSWERS
NHL sends warning: helmets mandatory for warmups amid recent rule violations

Do you support the NHL's helmet mandate during warmups?

Yes, safety first7447.1 %
No, let the tradition live5736.3 %
Only for rookies63.8 %
Doesn't matter, helmet or not2012.7 %
List of polls

CHICAGO HOCKEY INSIDER
COPYRIGHT @2025  ·  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
TERMS OF SERVICE  ·  PRIVACY POLICY  ·  COOKIE POLICY
RSS FEED  ·  SITEMAP  ·  ROBOTS.TXT