It seems like yesterday that the upstart Maple Leafs shocked the hockey world with their gutsy playoff performance. Since then, we’ve been tapping our feet like Sonic the Hedgehog (shout out to Bob McCown) for the puck to drop on the ’17–’18 season. But before we get into the full swing of things (and because we’re a dental clinic), we thought we’d examine the toothless smile – the mugs that only happen on the ice.
Gordie Howe – our favorite toothless smile
When you play hockey at the highest level for parts of five decades, you’re bound to lose a few chicklets. This pic makes us laugh for a few reasons, but mostly it’s Mr. Hockey’s silver hair. The missing teeth kinda seem to fit, don’t they?
Dustin Brown
We’re told that when you win the Stanley Cup, every lost tooth is forgotten and all the pain’s worth it. We should hope so for Mr. Brown’s sake ‘cause he clearly has very few left. Although, his name will forever be engraved on sports’ most iconic trophy. And he can always come in for a set of implants.
Ken Daneyko
Here’s a guy who looks like he amassed 2,812 penalty minutes over 28 years in professional hockey. With 175 playoff games under his belt and three Stanley Cups to his name, you know he blocked a shot or ten with his face.
Keith Tkachuk
He’s the only American-born player on our list and among the best American-born players ever. He was hit so hard in his last playoff series that his three front teeth quite literally fell out of his mouth (true story). But when your number’s retired, you don’t notice.
Sean Couturier
Rounding out our top five is the youngest player on our list. Check out that five-hole in the middle of his face. And he’s only 24 years old. Keep on doing your thing, Sean. We’re proud of ya!
