Lou Lamoriello is a polarizing figure these days, perhaps more than ever. His rigid management style has always been a point of discussion, dating back to his days with the New Jersey Devils.
His recent trade for Bo Horvat has people talking, and one specific detail caught folks up more than others. In choosing a new number, Horvat - who had donned #53 for his entire NHL career - was forced to settle for #14.
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Firstly, #53 is not available on the Islanders, as center Casey Cizikas has held that number for over ten years.
However, his GM's rules limited Horvat from picking a number over #40; a rule Lamoriello has loosely held - with exceptions - for decades. Horvat donned #53 in honor of a late teammate, Ian Jenkins.
More of Lou Lamoriello's rules include, according to Gord Miller:
-no facial hair (except the in playoffs)
-no long hair (past the collar)
-no jewelry (necklaces/earrings)
-jackets/ties must be worn to games and on the team bus/plane
-no broadcasters/media permitted on the team charter (including team broadcasters)
Revisiting the Old School GM's rules, has rekindled a contentious debate over how necessary his rules are. Former player Brooks Laich spoke plainly on the matter:
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The two sides overlapped for two seasons from 2015-2017 toward the end of Laich's playing career. Ipso facto, Laich - a veteran at the time - clearly understands the affect Lamoriello's rules have on a room. He doesn't seem overly fond of them...
Is Lou Lamoriello too old school for the current NHL?
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