NHL's Wildest Stick Knob: Adam Fox's Unique Grip

New York Rangers defenseman Adam Fox has garnered attention for his uniquely taped stick knob, which resembles the bottom of a baseball bat. This distinctive equipment feature, noted by fellow NHL players, is purely practical for Fox, enhancing his grip and comfort on the ice. He curls his pinky over the knob, stating his hand would otherwise slip without this specialized backstop.

The extreme taping method has evolved since Fox's youth, growing during his college and early professional years. Teammates like J.T. Miller and Braden Schneider have expressed surprise at the amount of tape used, with Miller estimating it to be double his own. Despite the unusual appearance, which has even been compared to goalie stick knobs, Fox has found a consistent sweet spot in size over the past few seasons, believing any alteration would negatively impact his play.

This unconventional knob serves as a crucial tool for Fox's consistent elite performance, contributing to his Norris Trophy win and consistent top rankings. While other players like Mark Stone also have unique stick preferences, Fox's taped knob has become an integral part of his game, proving that even unusual equipment choices can lead to success on the ice.