Lou Lamoriello rules: What are Islanders GM' regulations on facial hair, beard and more?

New York Islanders General Manager Lou Lamoriello is known for his strict team rules, especially regarding appearance. These rules came into focus this offseason when Anthony Duclair, a former San Jose Sharks forward, joined the Islanders.

On July 1, 2024, Duclair signed a four-year, $14 million contract with the Islanders. This is the longest contract of his 10-year NHL career. After signing, Duclair shared a photo on social media showing his hair on a counter.

This screenshot of Duclair's Instagram story, which was posted by the user Matty Drainclogger on X, shows that he had cut his hair to meet the team’s standards. He also shaved his beard, following the Islanders’ grooming rules.

Lamoriello has enforced these rules throughout his career with other teams, including the New Jersey Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs. Here are the main rules as listed by insider Gord Miller:

1. No Facial Hair: Players cannot have facial hair during the regular season. Playoff beards are allowed in the postseason.
2. Hair Length: Hair must be neat and not extend past the collar.
3. No Jewelry: Players cannot wear visible jewelry, like necklaces or earrings, during team activities.
4. Dress Code: Players must wear jackets and ties to games and while traveling on the team bus or plane.
5. No Media on Team Charter: Broadcasters and media, including team broadcasters, are not allowed on the team charter.

These rules show that Lou Lamoriello is focused on discipline and professionalism. Players like Duclair follow these rules to align with the team’s culture.

Forward Kyle Palmieri also had to shave his beard due to Lou Lamoriello's rules

Previously, forward Kyle Palmieri had to shave his beard after being traded to the Islanders in 2021. This was due to Lou Lamoriello's strict rules.

Lamoriello, the Islanders' President of Hockey Operations, enforces several old-school rules, especially about player appearance. Players can’t wear high jersey numbers unless they're veterans or new players. Lamoriello believes lower numbers show unity.

The most talked-about rules are hair-related. Players can’t have long hair or facial hair during the regular season. Critics say these rules are just about control, not professionalism or success.

Players usually follow these rules without complaint. But teams like the Devils and Maple Leafs dropped these rules once Lou Lamoriello left.

The NHL's suit and tie dress code on game days is also seen as outdated. During the playoff bubble, the rule was relaxed, allowing players more personal expression, which was popular.