Carolina Hurricanes forward William Carrier recently celebrated his 2024 Stanley Cup victory by using the trophy as a serving vessel for poutine, a traditional Quebecois dish of fries, gravy, and cheese curds.
The Evolution of Stanley Cup Celebrations
In the video shared by Phil Pritchard, Carrier lined the interior of the Cup with parchment paper before adding the poutine ingredients. This practice addresses long-standing concerns regarding the cleanliness of the trophy, which has historically been used for diverse purposes, including infant baths.
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Comparing Historic and Modern Trophy Etiquette
Modern players like Carrier, who secured his second title after a 2023 win with the Vegas Golden Knights, appear more conscious of the trophy’s preservation compared to earlier eras.
Poutine and Cultural Significance
Poutine remains a staple of Canadian culinary culture. The simplicity of the dish—fries, gravy, and curds—has seen various iterations, yet the classic preparation remains the standard for many NHL players hailing from Quebec.

Future Trends in NHL Trophy Traditions
As the NHL prepares for an expanded 84-game regular season, the league continues to balance its historic traditions with modern media visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who oversees the care of the Stanley Cup? The Hockey Hall of Fame employs “Keepers of the Cup,” such as Phil Pritchard, who travel with the trophy and ensure it is maintained.
- Can players do whatever they want with the Cup?
- Why is parchment paper used in the trophy? Players use it as a sanitary liner to protect the bowl when using it to hold food or drinks.
What is the most creative way you’ve seen a trophy used for food? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on NHL traditions and team news.
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