Few pieces of hockey equipment have influenced the game as much as the hockey stick curve. From the early days of subtle heel curves to today’s aggressive toe hooks, NHL stick curves have shaped how players shoot, pass, stickhandle, and even think the game. If you’ve ever wondered why certain curves are legendary, or which NHL players still use them, this guide breaks it all down.
Whether you’re a beer-leaguer looking for more pop on your wrister or a competitive player dialing in puck control, understanding the most iconic NHL curves can help you choose the right stick for your style.
What Is a Hockey Stick Curve?
A hockey stick curve refers to the shape of the blade, including:
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Curve location (heel, mid, or toe)
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Curve depth (how open the blade is)
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Face angle (open vs closed)
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Blade lie (how the blade sits on the ice)
These elements directly affect shot trajectory, release speed, puck control, and passing accuracy. Over the years, certain curves became famous because elite NHL players used them to devastating effect—and the rest of the hockey world followed.
The Gretzky Curve (P10) – The Original Icon
Curve Type: Heel curve, closed face
Popularized by: Wayne Gretzky
No list of iconic NHL stick curves starts anywhere else. The Gretzky curve, commonly known as the P10, is hockey history in blade form.
Why It’s Iconic
Wayne Gretzky used a relatively mild heel curve with a closed face, which perfectly matched his pass-first mentality. The curve allowed for:
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Elite backhand control
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Flat, accurate passing
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Precise wrist shots
At a time when big slap shots dominated, Gretzky’s curve emphasized hockey IQ, touch, and deception—mirroring how he played the game.
Who Still Uses It?
While rare in today’s NHL, Gretzky-style heel curves are still favored by:
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Playmakers
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Defensive-minded centers
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Players who rely on passing and backhands
Modern equivalents include mild heel curves offered by major brands, often marketed toward traditionalists.
The Sakic / Yzerman Curve (P88) – The All-Around Classic
Curve Type: Mid curve, slightly open face
Popularized by: Joe Sakic, Steve Yzerman
The P88 is arguably the most versatile hockey stick curve ever made—and one of the most popular NHL curves of all time.
Why It’s Iconic
Used by two of the greatest two-way forwards in NHL history, the P88 offers:
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Excellent puck control
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Reliable forehand and backhand passing
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Controlled shot height
It became the go-to curve for players who wanted consistency in every zone of the ice.
Who Still Uses It?
The P88 remains widely used across all levels of hockey. In today’s NHL, it’s favored by players who value:
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Defensive responsibility
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Accurate snapshots
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Balanced offensive play
If you’re unsure which curve to choose, many coaches and equipment managers still recommend the P88 as a safe, proven option.
The Lidström Curve – Defenseman Perfection
Curve Type: Mild mid-toe, closed face
Popularized by: Nicklas Lidström
Nicklas Lidström didn’t need a flashy curve—he needed one that helped him make the right play every time.
Why It’s Iconic
The Lidström curve became famous for its ability to:
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Keep shots low from the point
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Improve breakout passes
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Maintain defensive reliability
This curve minimized risk, making it ideal for elite puck-moving defensemen.
Who Still Uses It?
While not always labeled directly as a “Lidström curve” today, its design lives on in:
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Closed-face defense curves
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Low-shot, accuracy-focused blades
Defensemen who prioritize positioning and puck movement still gravitate toward this style.
The Ovechkin Curve – Power Redefined
Curve Type: Toe curve, very open face
Popularized by: Alex Ovechkin
When Alex Ovechkin entered the league, he changed how shooters approached scoring—and his curve played a major role.
Why It’s Iconic
The Ovechkin curve introduced many players to aggressive toe hooks that:
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Generate extreme shot velocity
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Elevate the puck effortlessly
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Excel on one-timers
It helped redefine modern goal scoring, especially on the power play.
Who Still Uses It?
Power forwards and volume shooters across the NHL continue to favor Ovi-style toe curves, particularly players known for:
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One-timers
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Heavy wrist shots
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High-release shooting
It’s less forgiving, but deadly in the right hands.
The Kane Curve (P88/P28 Hybrid) – Hands and Deception
Curve Type: Toe curve, open face
Popularized by: Patrick Kane
Patrick Kane’s curve evolution helped bridge the gap between classic mid curves and modern toe hooks.
Why It’s Iconic
The Kane curve excels at:
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Quick-release shots
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Elite puck handling in tight spaces
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Deceptive shooting angles
It suits creative players who rely on hands, edge work, and misdirection.
Who Still Uses It?
Many of today’s skill-first forwards and wingers prefer Kane-inspired toe curves for their ability to:
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Pull pucks into shooting position fast
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Change shot angles mid-stride
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Beat goalies clean with release speed
The McDavid Curve (P28) – The Modern Standard
Curve Type: Aggressive toe curve, open face
Popularized by: Connor McDavid
The P28 has become one of the most popular hockey stick curves in the world—and Connor McDavid helped cement its legacy.
Why It’s Iconic
Designed for today’s fast, attacking style, the P28 offers:
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Lightning-quick release
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Excellent toe-drag control
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High shot elevation in tight
It complements high-speed play and dynamic skating.
Who Still Uses It?
Many NHL stars and elite youth players now use P28-style curves, especially those who:
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Attack off the rush
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Shoot in stride
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Play a modern, pace-driven game
It’s one of the most commonly used curves at both the pro and amateur levels today.
Why Stick Curves Matter More Than Ever
With today’s lighter sticks and quicker game pace, choosing the right hockey stick curve can significantly impact performance. The most iconic NHL curves didn’t just belong to great players—they enabled greatness.
When selecting a curve, consider:
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Your position
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Shot type (wrist, snap, slap)
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Preferred shooting height
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Comfort on backhand plays
People Also Ask: NHL Stick Curves Explained
What is the most popular NHL stick curve?
The P28 toe curve is currently the most popular NHL stick curve. Popularized by Connor McDavid, it’s favored for its quick release, easy puck elevation, and effectiveness when shooting in stride. Many modern NHL forwards use P28-style curves to match today’s fast-paced, attack-first game.
What curve did Wayne Gretzky use?
Wayne Gretzky used a heel curve with a closed face, commonly known as the P10. This curve emphasized passing accuracy, puck control, and strong backhand play rather than raw shooting power.
What is the best stick curve for wrist shots?
Toe curves like the P28 and P29 are excellent for wrist shots because they help load the puck quickly and elevate shots with minimal effort. Players who rely on fast releases often prefer these curves.
What is the best hockey stick curve for beginners?
The P88 mid curve is widely considered the best hockey stick curve for beginners. It offers balanced puck control, predictable shot trajectory, and reliable backhand performance, making it easier to develop proper shooting and passing technique.
What curve do most NHL defensemen use?
Many NHL defensemen prefer milder mid or mid-toe curves with a more closed face. These curves help keep shots low from the point, improve accuracy on breakout passes, and reduce the risk of shots sailing high.
Are toe curves bad for backhand shots?
Toe curves can make backhand shots more challenging because of the open face and aggressive hook. While skilled players can still execute strong backhands, traditional mid or heel curves generally provide better backhand control.
Does a stick curve really affect shooting accuracy?
Yes, stick curve plays a major role in shooting accuracy, release speed, and shot height. Choosing a curve that matches your shooting style can significantly improve consistency and confidence with the puck.
Choosing an Iconic Curve for Your Game
From the Gretzky P10 to the McDavid P28, iconic NHL stick curves tell the story of how hockey has evolved. While today’s game leans heavily toward toe curves and quick release shooting, the best curve is still the one that fits your style.
If you want:
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Maximum control: Look to classic mid or heel curves
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Quick release and elevation: Modern toe curves shine
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All-around reliability: Timeless options like the P88 remain undefeated
Understanding these legendary NHL curves—and who still uses them—can help you make a smarter choice every time you tape a blade.
Because in hockey, sometimes the smallest curve makes the biggest difference.
