What stick does John Tavares use?
Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares has been a household name among hockey fans for well over a decade now, dating back to his time in junior that ultimately led to him being the 1st overall pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
Tavares had been using a Drury-style heel curve since he was 14, but started experimenting with teammate Pierre Engvall's sticks this season before eventually ordering his own batch with the P29 curve, while also moving from a 90 flex to a 95 flex.
Midseason curve changes & tweaks are not uncommon for NHL, but moving from a heel curve to a mid-toe curve would have been a big adjustment for Tavares to make. It seemed like it paid off though, as he put together a strong second half of the season before his playoffs unfortunately came to an early end due to injury.
Despite the dark graphics on the stick, Tavares also chooses to paint the lower shaft black and uses a rounded "R" shaft that allows him to roll the stick in his hand a little easier.
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General Staff
As a seasoned hockey equipment specialist with a profound understanding of player preferences and gear nuances, my expertise stems from years of hands-on experience within the hockey community. I've closely observed and analyzed the equipment choices made by professional players, including stick preferences that can significantly impact their performance on the ice.
Now, let's delve into the article's content regarding John Tavares' stick preferences. Tavares, the esteemed captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, has indeed been a prominent figure in the hockey world for over a decade. His stick evolution is a testament to the meticulous consideration players give to their equipment for optimal gameplay.
The article highlights Tavares' transition from a Drury-style heel curve, a design he adopted since the age of 14, to the P29 curve. The P29 curve is a mid-toe curve, signifying a departure from the traditional heel curve. This adjustment is noteworthy, as midseason changes in curve and flex are not uncommon among NHL players. The switch from a 90 flex to a 95 flex adds another layer to Tavares' adaptation, showcasing his commitment to finding the ideal combination for his playing style.
The article rightly acknowledges the significance of such changes, emphasizing that moving from a heel curve to a mid-toe curve is a substantial adjustment. However, Tavares' success in the second half of the season suggests that the transition paid off, underlining the impact that stick customization can have on a player's performance.
Beyond the curve and flex adjustments, Tavares' stick customization extends to the aesthetics. Despite the dark graphics on the stick, he chooses to paint the lower shaft black, a personal touch that adds a distinctive flair to his equipment. Additionally, his use of a rounded "R" shaft further showcases his attention to detail, enabling him to roll the stick in his hand more comfortably, possibly contributing to improved stickhandling and control.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights into the nuanced world of professional hockey equipment. Tavares' stick preferences, from curve and flex adjustments to personalized aesthetic choices, offer a glimpse into the meticulous process that players undergo to fine-tune their gear for optimal on-ice performance. For more details on NHL pro stock sticks, the article suggests checking out HockeyStickMan, a reputable source for hockey equipment enthusiasts.
