Why Is Jersey Number 0 Banned in the NHL?
Many hockey fans notice that no player in the National Hockey League wears jersey number 0. This often raises a common question: Why is jersey number 0 banned in the NHL?
The answer is not about superstition—it’s about history, rules, and league standards.
Why is jersey number 0 banned in the NHL?
Jersey number 0 is not officially listed as “banned”, but in practice, it isnot allowed or issued
The main reasons are:
- League traditions and standards
- Statistical and record-keeping issues
- Consistency across teams
Over the years, the NHL standardized jersey numbering to avoid confusion in game records, score sheets, and broadcasts. Single-digit numbers like 0 were excluded to maintain uniformity.
Has any NHL player ever worn number 0?
No.In official NHL regular-season games, no player has ever worn jersey number 0.
Some minor leagues or international leagues have allowed unusual numbers, but the NHL has always avoided using 0 on official jerseys.
Is jersey number 00 also banned in the NHL?
Yes—jersey number 00 is also not permitted in the NHL.
Earlier in hockey history, a few leagues experimented with double-zero jerseys, but the NHL removed them long ago to keep statistics, player tracking, and historical records clear and consistent.
Why does the NHL restrict certain jersey numbers?
The NHL restricts or discourages certain numbers mainly because of:
- Statistical clarity (player stats, penalties, goals)
- Broadcast clarity for fans and officials
- Historical consistency
While most numbers from 1 to 98 are allowed, the league avoids numbers that could cause confusion, such as 0 or 00.
What is the Gretzky rule in the NHL?
The “Gretzky Rule” refers to jersey number 99 being retired league-wide in honor of Wayne Gretzky.
No NHL player is allowed to wear number 99 because of Gretzky’s legendary impact on the sport. This is different from number 0, which is restricted for technical and administrative reasons.
Is jersey number 69 banned in the NHL?
No.Jersey number 69 is not officially banned,but it is extremely rare.
Most players avoid it due to unwanted attention and locker-room culture rather than league rules.
Final explanation (Short answer)
- Jersey number 0 is not used in the NHL
- The restriction exists for standardization and record-keeping
- No NHL player has ever worn number 0
- Number 00 is also not allowed
- This is different from number 99, which is retired league-wide