The Impact of PK Subban:

Ever since being drafted in the 2007 NHL draft by the Montreal Canadiens PK Subban has been a polarizing figure. He has received unnecessary hate ever since coming into the league. This hate is uncalled for and irrational. Although PK has been on three separate teams, his impact on the game has always been substantial and is constantly increasing. 

His impact has increased specifically during this pandemic. Usually in times of a world crisis, people rely on sports as their escape from reality. Sports are a distraction from people's problems. It is a gateway for human beings to cope with their everyday struggles. Unfortunately, people have not had the opportunity to rely on such entertainment during this pandemic. As a result, it becomes the players’ responsibility to interact with their fans, to help their communities and to make a true difference in people’s lives. 

Most NHL players are not known for their flamboyant personalities. Luckily, there are a few outliers who provide entertainment both on and off the ice. One of these players is PK Subban. 

During these harsh times, PK is showing his outgoing personality by helping to host an NHL trivia game for the fans Despite being quarantined, he is ensuring that he remains involved in the hockey community. Lastly, he even created a youtube channel to help describe his daily life as an NHL player. Not only has PK interacted with fans, he has also helped many in need. PK has been a staple at the Montreal Children’s hospital. No matter the circumstance, PK has ensured to visit and form relationships with these kids in need. During COVID-19, he has enhanced his involvement in the Montreal Children’s Hospital by providing food for all of the children in need. All of his good work is conveyed through the Pk Subban Foundation which helps portray his involvement in the Nashville, Montreal and New Jersey communities.

Of course, there are many more important things to life than hockey. However, during these times hockey needs to remain relevant. The source of relevancy remains in the player’s hands and PK is the quintessential example of how a player should interact with others during these times. 

PK’s extreme passion for the game is easily recognizable and is attractive to the common NHL fan. PK’s willingness to win and hard work is what people should admire. As a black player, PK also represents the diversity and growth of the game. All of these attributes are what makes PK a great “face” of the NHL. As a result, PK has become a fan favorite no matter the logo on his jersey. He has shown people that through passion and motivation one can succeed. Instead of focusing merely on his down year with the Devils, people should not take him for granted. PK has the ability to individually grow the game of hockey to a level that the NHL has never seen.